Given the long-term injuries to David Alaba and Eder Militao, the 31-year-old German is Real’s most reliable and finest midfield player this season. Aurelien Tchouameni, a defensive midfielder called back in light of the ongoing personnel issues, played alongside Rudiger in the pivotal Champions League quarterfinals first leg matchup against Man City.
The task for number 22 today is to follow Erling Haaland, currently regarded as one of the most dangerous strikers in the world. Anyone encountering Haaland will need to be cautious because to their power, speed, and ability to scent goals.
This striker made it clear to everyone just how dangerous he is when operating in the penalty area in the sixth minute. He started behind Rudiger, gained an advantage through speed, got a pass from Gvardiol, spun, and finished right away. Real Madrid was fortunate that goalie Lunin remained vigilant and made the save to prevent further losses for the team.
However, it’s likely the only mark that Man City’s ninth player made in today’s game. With his unique skill set, Rudiger did an excellent job of blocking the Norwegian attacker. When Haaland attempted to utilize his back to press and obtain the upper hand, he was not helpless. In addition to his natural mobility, the German midfielder still possesses good speed and intelligence. The following metrics from Sofa Score will demonstrate why Rudiger is currently Real Madrid’s finest defensive player:
Ninety minutes of action
Four rescue attempts
two picks and three tackles
Three disputes prevail.
Haaland’s stats on Sofa Score, however, reveаl that he had the same nightmare versus Arsenal as he did two weeks prior:
Ninety minutes of action
20 ball touches, one shot
seven times lost possession of the ball
incorrect pass in 3/9 of the cases
Rudiger not only contained Haaland but also demonstrated his impact on the defense of the team. Bernardo Silva headed directly into Real Madrid’s penalty area in the 50th minute. Even up against a player as quick and cunning as number 20, Rudiger maintained his composure. He took a step back and waited for his colleagues to return to his aid before precisely timing and executing a brilliant tackle that helped pave the way for the “White Vultures” comeback.
Ferland Mendy’s words of support and encouragement following the high ball controversy that resulted in Haaland being fouled by the referee further demonstrated the player’s intense passion. The German midfielder is not just a skilled defender but also displays poise when he has the ball at his feet. Additionally, based on Sofa Score, this player completed 51 passes for an 80.4% success rate. He can handle the ball with confidence, which makes him feel at ease even while facing pressure from City players.
If Pep wants to prevent Rudiger from keeping Haaland incapacitated in the C1 Cup game, he must figure out a means to enable him to play comfortably and score goals. The answer will be revealed during the second leg of the semi-final on April 18 at 2:00 a.m.