Granit Xhaka
SunderlandCM
Deep-Lying Playmaker
Sep 27, 1992 (33)
Left
6'1"
176 lb
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Small numbers in Canada meeting
Xhaka registered one shot (zero on goal), one tackle (zero won) and two clearances and was booked in Wednesday's 2-1 win versus Canada.
Analysis: Xhaka handled the ball with the usual expertise in the midfield but didn't stand out on either end, as Switzerland cruised to a relatively easy win and only had to defend late in the match. He has taken at least one shot in all three fixtures, amassing five attempts (one on target), burying one PK and recording also three key passes, two crosses (zero accurate) and three tackles (one won).
Sets tempo in opener
Xhaka generated two shots (zero on goal), one cross (zero accurate) and two chances created in Saturday's 1-1 draw against Qatar.
Analysis: Xhaka captained Switzerland with authority in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Qatar at Levi's Stadium, setting the tempo from deep midfield and registering two shots and one interception as his side dominated possession and territory throughout the 90 minutes before Boualem Khoukhi's stoppage-time header denied all three points. The Sunderland midfielder orchestrated play in the second half as Switzerland pushed relentlessly for the second goal that would have put the match beyond doubt, combining defensive discipline with progressive ball-carrying in a performance that underlined why he remains Switzerland's most important player at 33. His side generated 26 total attempts and controlled the match from start to finish, making the stoppage-time equalizer all the more devastating for a captain who gave everything over 90 minutes in what should have been a winning World Cup opener.
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