Housain Al Mogahwi was at the heart of things for Saudi Arabia as they roared into Asian Cup 2019’s round of 16 with an authoritative 2-0 triumph against Lebanon.
The Al Ahli Jeddah midfielder, 30, made only one start at World Cup 2018, the final Group A win against Egypt, but has been in the XI for both victories in the UAE.
A goal capped off a fine display and here’s why he is our Hero of the Day:
STATISTICS
30-SECOND REPORT
The Green Falcons were full of confidence after a 4-0 opening win in Group E against North Korea.
They exerted control from the off against Lebanon, struggling on their return to the Asian Cup after 19 years away.
Al Ittihad false 9 Fahad Al Muwallad smashed into the roof of the goal after awful defending on 12 minutes and Al Mogahwi slid home from point-blank range on 67 minutes to seal the result.
GOOD
Making a difference
By and large, the centre midfielders at Asia’s heavyweights are all tidy in possession.
What makes the difference, for players such as South Korea’s Ki Sung-yueng and injured Australia star Aaron Mooy, is an ability to find the back of the net.
Al Mogahwi’s first international goal since August 2016 showcased his instincts. A darting run brought him beyond the Lebanon defence and into the perfect spot to volley in Hattan Bahebri’s sublime cross.
The last time Saudi Arabia won its first 2 consecutive matches in an Asian Cup was 23 years ago in 1996.
— Saudi National Team (@SaudiNT_EN) January 12, 2019
The wins came against:
6-0 vs Thailand
1-0 vs Iraq pic.twitter.com/mMlzlQMt3B
BAD
Can he mix it up?
On Saturday night at Al Maktoum Stadium, Al Moghawi strolled through proceedings.
Sterner tests, however, are certain to come.
This is why a duel-success rate of 62.5 per cent (from eight duels) and zero tackles attempted will make the Green Falcons technical staff take notice.
When the Saudis have to scrap in the latter stages, they’ll need every player to put a foot in. No matter their technical acumen.
VERDICT
Unfortunate pre-tournament injury to Salman Al Faraj guaranteed Al Mogahwi’s spot in the XI.
But the excellence of his performances to date mean that he would be featuring, even if the influential Al Hilal icon was present in the Emirates.
His quality on the ball and ability to read the game is essential to the functioning of head coach Juan Antonio Pizzi’s system. The second-half goal was just reward for Al Mogahwi’s brilliance.
Rating: 7/10
