AFCON 2025
Following the conclusion of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second-leg fixtures, UEFA has announced its Team of the Week, highlighting standout performers who played pivotal roles in their teams’ successes.
Goalkeeper:
Gianluigi Donnarumma (Paris Saint-Germain)
The Italian shot-stopper was instrumental in PSG’s advancement, delivering crucial saves during regular play and excelling in the penalty shootout against Liverpool.
Defenders:
– Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan)
Dumfries showcased his defensive solidity and offensive support, pressing effectively and executing three line-breaking passes, contributing significantly to Inter’s strategy.
– Emre Can (Borussia Dortmund)
Demonstrating leadership and composure, Can was pivotal in Dortmund’s comeback against Lille, notably scoring the penalty equalizer and excelling in duels.
– Raúl Asencio (Real Madrid)
In a challenging derby against Atlético Madrid, Asencio’s defensive prowess was evident with 12 ball recoveries and nine progressive plays into the final third, reinforcing Real’s backline.
– Nuno Mendes (Paris Saint-Germain)
Tasked with containing Mohamed Salah, Mendes delivered a stellar defensive performance, achieving 15 recoveries and six clearances, while also contributing eight line-breaking passes.
Midfielders:
– Rodrigo De Paul (Atlético Madrid)
Despite Atlético’s exit, De Paul’s relentless work rate and leadership were commendable, with 14 recoveries and four key passes, embodying the team’s fighting spirit.
– Pedri (Barcelona)
Integral to Barcelona’s midfield dominance over Benfica, Pedri’s exceptional work rate included 61 pressing actions and ten line-breaking passes, showcasing his influence in both defense and attack.
– Raheem Sterling (Arsenal)
Sterling was pivotal in Arsenal’s draw with PSV, providing two assists, displaying effective dribbling, and maintaining width, which disrupted the opposition’s defense.
Forwards:
– Marco Asensio (Aston Villa)
Coming off the bench, Asensio’s impact was immediate, scoring two well-taken goals against Club Brugge, elevating Villa’s attacking threat and showcasing his clinical finishing.
– Maximilian Beier (Borussia Dortmund)
Beier’s breakthrough performance was marked by his match-winning goal against Lille and a commendable defensive effort with 12 recoveries, highlighting his all-around contribution.
– Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
Kane continued his stellar form, recording a goal and an assist in Bayern’s victory over Bayer Leverkusen. His intelligent movement and work ethic were instrumental in the team’s success.
