Sunderland vs. Everton: Player Ratings Unveiled - Xhaka's Debut Goal Steals the Show!
Let's dive into the player ratings from the Sunderland vs. Everton match, where Granit Xhaka's first goal for SAFC became the headline! Here's a breakdown of how each player performed:
Robin Roefs (7/10): While he couldn't prevent the goal, Roefs was otherwise his usual dependable self. He made a crucial save and was proactive in claiming crosses.
Trai Hume (6/10): Hume had a shaky start, struggling against Everton's attacks on his side of the pitch, but he improved as the game progressed.
Nordi Mukiele (8/10): Mukiele could have closed down Ndiaye for the goal but was defensively dominant under pressure. He contributed well in attack, delivering a great ball that Isidor should have capitalized on and nearly scored from Xhaka's cross.
Dan Ballard (8/10): Like his teammates, Ballard started a bit sloppily. However, he was excellent in the final hour, making a vital interception to prevent a potential goal.
Reinildo (8/10): Despite the goal coming from Ndiaye cutting inside, Reinildo performed well, nullifying threats and contributing in attack. He also made a brilliant late clearance.
Granit Xhaka (C) (8/10): Xhaka scored his first goal for the club with a deflected effort and dominated the midfield once the team found their rhythm. He almost set up a winning goal but had a couple of sloppy passes.
Noah Sadiki (8/10): Sadiki got frustrated early on and received a booking. However, he covered a lot of ground, displayed skill in attack, and performed well during Everton's late break.
Lutsharel Geertruida (8/10): Geertruida was calm and composed throughout the game, making good tackles and displaying excellent ball control.
Bertrand Traore (7/10): Traore was Sunderland's best attacking outlet in the first half, causing problems for Everton. He remained solid in the second half, contributing on the right and tracking back to help.
Enzo Le Fee (7/10): Le Fee created opportunities with good touches, set up a chance for Isidor, and his run led to Xhaka's equalizer.
Wilson Isidor (6/10): Isidor had a half-chance but shot over the bar and missed a better opportunity from Mukiele's cross.
Substitutes:
Chemsdine Talbi (6/10): Showed effort but didn't get a chance to run with the ball.
Brian Brobbey (6/10): Made good runs but had no luck up front.
Man of the Match: Granit Xhaka
Xhaka's Impact: Although Xhaka made a couple of sloppy passes that led to dangerous counter-attacks, his teammates bailed him out. His presence was crucial, providing a calming influence when the team struggled and becoming instrumental in the final hour. He scored his first goal and deserved the Man of the Match award.
Controversy Alert: Do you agree with Xhaka being Man of the Match, despite the errors? Who else stood out for you in this match, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!**
