Flamengo Vs Al Hilal: Player Ratings & Analysis

by Jhon Lennon 48 views

Let's dive into the Flamengo vs. Al Hilal match and break down the player ratings and provide a detailed analysis of each team's performance. This match was a real nail-biter, and understanding individual contributions is key to appreciating the game's dynamics.

Flamengo Player Ratings

Goalkeeper:

  • Santos - 6.5/10 Santos had a decent game, making a few important saves. However, he wasn't tested as much as he might have anticipated, and there's a sense he could have commanded his area with a bit more authority. Distribution was generally safe but lacked the spark to ignite quick counter-attacks. Overall, a fairly standard performance between the sticks.

Defenders:

  • Ayrton Lucas - 6/10 Ayrton Lucas showed glimpses of his attacking flair, but his defensive duties sometimes took a backseat. He managed a few decent crosses into the box, but his positioning was occasionally questionable, leaving gaps for Al Hilal to exploit. Needs to find a better balance between attack and defense to truly shine.
  • David Luiz - 7/10 David Luiz brought his experience to the backline, making crucial interceptions and tackles. His leadership was evident, organizing the defense and providing guidance to his younger teammates. While not always the quickest, his reading of the game remains top-notch. However, his occasional lapses in concentration can still be a concern.
  • Léo Pereira - 6.5/10 Léo Pereira had a mixed game. He was solid in the air, winning several important headers, but his passing out from the back could have been sharper. He needs to improve his composure under pressure to avoid gifting possession to the opposition. A decent performance, but with room for improvement.
  • Guillermo Varela - 5.5/10 Guillermo Varela struggled to contain the Al Hilal attack down his flank. He was often caught out of position and failed to provide adequate cover for his teammates. His attacking contributions were minimal, making it a tough night for the right-back. Needs to step up his game significantly.

Midfielders:

  • Thiago Maia - 6/10 Thiago Maia worked tirelessly in midfield, breaking up plays and winning back possession. However, his passing was often too safe, and he rarely offered a creative spark going forward. Needs to add more dynamism to his game to become a more influential player.
  • Gerson - 7.5/10 Gerson was one of Flamengo's standout performers, driving the team forward with his energy and creativity. He linked up well with the attackers, creating several scoring opportunities. His passing range was impressive, and he showed a willingness to take on defenders. A strong performance in the heart of midfield.
  • Éverton Ribeiro - 6.5/10 Éverton Ribeiro showed flashes of brilliance, but his overall impact was limited. He struggled to find space in the crowded midfield and was often dispossessed. His set-piece delivery was inconsistent, and he failed to make a significant impact on the game. Needs to find more consistency in his performances.

Forwards:

  • Gabriel Barbosa (Gabigol) - 7/10 Gabigol was a constant threat to the Al Hilal defense, using his pace and trickery to create chances. He managed to get on the scoresheet. His work rate was impressive, and he never stopped running. However, he can sometimes be wasteful in front of goal and needs to be more clinical.
  • Pedro - 6/10 Pedro had a quiet game, struggling to get involved in the play. He was well-marshaled by the Al Hilal defense and failed to create any clear-cut chances. His hold-up play was decent, but he needs to offer more of a threat in the penalty area. A disappointing performance from the striker.
  • Éverton Cebolinha - 5.5/10 Éverton Cebolinha failed to make an impact after coming on as a substitute. He struggled to get past his marker and his passing was erratic. Needs to show more composure and quality when given the opportunity.

Al Hilal SFC Player Ratings

Goalkeeper:

  • Abdullah Al-Muaiouf - 7/10 Abdullah Al-Muaiouf was solid in goal, making several important saves to keep Flamengo at bay. His handling was secure, and he commanded his area effectively. A reliable presence between the sticks.

Defenders:

  • Nasser Al-Dawsari - 6.5/10 Nasser Al-Dawsari put in a decent shift at left-back, defending resolutely and providing support in attack. His crossing was accurate, and he showed good energy levels throughout the game. A solid performance.
  • Ali Al-Bulaihi - 7.5/10 Ali Al-Bulaihi was a rock at the heart of the Al Hilal defense, making crucial tackles and interceptions. His aerial presence was dominant, and he organized the backline effectively. A commanding performance.
  • Jang Hyun-soo - 7/10 Jang Hyun-soo partnered well with Al-Bulaihi, forming a strong defensive partnership. His positioning was excellent, and he rarely put a foot wrong. A composed and reliable performance.
  • Saud Abdulhamid - 6/10 Saud Abdulhamid had a tough time against the Flamengo attack, struggling to contain their pace and trickery. He was often caught out of position and needs to improve his defensive awareness.

Midfielders:

  • Gustavo Cuéllar - 7/10 Gustavo Cuéllar anchored the midfield effectively, breaking up plays and winning back possession. His tackling was strong, and he provided a shield for the defense. A solid and disciplined performance.
  • Salman Al-Faraj - 7.5/10 Salman Al-Faraj was the driving force in the Al Hilal midfield, dictating the tempo and creating chances. His passing range was impressive, and he showed great vision. A influential performance.
  • André Carrillo - 8/10 André Carrillo was the star of the show for Al Hilal, scoring a brace and causing problems for the Flamengo defense throughout the game. His pace, skill, and finishing were all top-notch. A match-winning performance.

Forwards:

  • Salem Al-Dawsari - 7/10 Salem Al-Dawsari supported Carrillo well in attack, creating chances and linking up effectively with his teammates. His movement was intelligent, and he caused problems for the Flamengo defense. A lively performance.
  • Odion Ighalo - 6.5/10 Odion Ighalo worked hard up front, holding up the ball and bringing others into play. He didn't have many clear-cut chances but contributed to the team's overall performance. A selfless performance.
  • Michael - 6/10 Michael, who came on as a substitute, added fresh legs to the attack but didn't have a significant impact on the game. He showed glimpses of his ability but needs more time to settle into the team.

Key Takeaways

  • Al Hilal's midfield dominated the game, with Al-Faraj and Carrillo pulling the strings.
  • Flamengo's defense looked shaky at times, particularly down the right flank.
  • Gabigol was Flamengo's main threat, but he lacked support from his fellow attackers.
  • Al Hilal's clinical finishing proved to be the difference between the two sides.

Conclusion

The player ratings reflect a match where Al Hilal's tactical superiority and individual brilliance shone through. Flamengo, while possessing talent, struggled to find cohesion and were ultimately outplayed. Analyzing these ratings helps us understand the strengths and weaknesses each team displayed on the field. Al Hilal secured a deserved victory. Flamengo needs to go back to the drawing board and address their shortcomings.