Alex Iwobi’s role in the Nigerian team has drawn the ire of the fans for lack of adventure in attack.
In the absence of an attacking midfielder, Alex has been the go-to player for the Eagles’ attack, but that is missing at the AFCON.
Despite his explanations at a pre-match conference, Alex Iwobi’s role still draws a lot of conversation, and Sportsintel decided to run his numbers.
“I have been told to manage the ball & keep the ball for my team.
“The role me & Frank told to do is to control the game as much as we can & DEFEND as a team.”
The quote from Alex Iwobi on his role but how well has he fared at keeping the ball and defending.
Alex Iwobi’s Role: Recovery Stats
According to Fotmob, Iwobi’s ball recovery stats rank in the 95% percentile compared to other players in the same position.
In Five games, he has recovered 28 balls, with four recoveries coming in the final third.
Compared to others, the Fulham midfielder’s 80.4% pass accuracy is low, but upon closer check, his 17 accurate long-ball passing puts him in the 97% percentile of central midfielders at AFCON 2023.
Also, out of the 200 touches when in possession, Iwobi only has two touches in the opposition half.
Iwobi’s possession stats show that he is yet to lose possession, which agrees with his role in the team.
Overall. the Nigerian players are tactically disciplined in every area, playing compactly and aggressively.
Defensively, Nigeria has kept the most clean sheets and conceded the fewest goals in this tournament.
Going forward, Nigeria has created the most big chances and has the highest expected goals. We have had the third-highest number of touches in the opposition box.