Switzerland suffered a 1-0 defeat to Brazil on Monday afternoon, but Manuel Akanji can hold his head high after an impressive performance at the Ras Abu Aboud.
The 27-year-old started alongside Nico Elvedi at centre-back and nearly kept the Samba Kings at bay if not for an 83rd-minute winner from Casemiro which deflected in off Akanji.
Raphinha, Richarlison and Vinicius Jr managed just one shot on target between them while Gabriel Jesus and Antony failed to test the goalkeeper, so Akanji and the Swiss backline did well to nullify Brazil’s threat for the most part.
Against Brazil, Akanji played for 90 minutes, made 89 touches, won one aerial duel, completed 85.9% of his 78 passes, had one shot, found a teammate from five of his nine long-range balls, made two tackles, blocked one shot, gave away one foul, made four clearances and had one interception.
Akanji joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund over the summer and has made 12 appearances in all competitions. The 27-year-old was on the losing team against Brazil, but he played well and will hope to take that level of performance into Switzerland’s final World Cup group game.
In other news, Pep Guardiola may take note as Man City player impresses in makeshift role v Germany
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