Granit Xhaka, Satisfied With The Team's Appearance But Disappointed With Conceding In The Last Minutes

Granit Xhaka, captain of the Swiss national team, has been named the Best Player (photo: dock.uefa.com)

JAKARTA Granit Xhaka, captain of the Swiss national team, was named the Best Player (Vivo Player of the Match) in a 1-1 draw against Germany on Sunday, June 23, which was held at the Frankfurt Arena Stadium.

Xhaka impressed throughout the game. The UEFA Technical Observer Panel stated, "He showed extraordinary leadership both in possession of the ball and without the ball, and recorded brilliant statistics."

Speaking to EURO2024.com after the match, Xhaka expressed his satisfaction with the draw although he felt a little disappointed because he conceded at the end of the game. "It was always disappointing when he conceded in stoppage time. In general, I think we showed a great character, we controlled the ball well, and in the end, we were able to feel satisfied with one point," he said.

Xhaka also added that reaching the last 16 was an important first step for Switzerland. "The first step has been completed. We look forward to the next game and the next opponent. After this match, I hope everyone has a little more respect for us than Switzerland," added Xhaka.

He also acknowledged the quality of Germany, but was proud of his team's competitive performance although he could not always play according to their style of play. "We know the quality of Germany. It's not always easy to play with the ball the way we usually want. But I think we're very competitive without the ball. We pressed them high, and most of the time, it's a good job for us," said Xhaka.

Xhaka's personal statistics also reflects its significant contribution. During the three matches that have been played in this tournament, Xhaka has played 270 minutes, with an average of 90 minutes per game. Despite not scoring a goal or providing assists, the passes' accuracy reached 86.67%, with 161 of the 184 passes successfully completed. Xhaka also recorded a top speed of 31.4 km/hour and has covered a total distance of 35.13 km.

Details of its feed distribution show that it completed 48 of 53 short passes, 100 of 111 mid-feeders, and 13 of 20 long passes. It also recorded 29 passes back successfully from 29 attempts, 55 passes to the left from 58 attempts, and 42 passes to the right from 45 attempts. In addition, Xhaka was also recorded to have made 16 passes to the attack area and 6 passes to the key area.

In terms of attack, although Xhaka has yet to score, he has recorded two drones, two ran into the attack area, and two fled to the key area.

With this result, Switzerland managed to achieve their goal of qualifying for the round of 16 and are ready to face the next challenge in the EURO 2024 competition.