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# Steven Bergwijn's Defensive Performance in Key Matches for Al Ittihad ## Al Ittihad: Steven Bergwijn's Dual Role as a Defender and Attacker Steven Bergwijn, the Dutch striker who joined Al Ittihad in 2022, has quickly become a key player not only because of his attacking prowess but also due to his remarkable defensive contributions. In a league where defensive versatility is highly valued, Bergwijn's ability to track back and help in defense has been a game-changer for the club. This dual role allows him to cover for defensive lapses and provides much-needed support in transition, making him a valuable asset to head coach Leonardo Jardim. ## Bergwijn's Defensive Impact in Key Matches Bergwijn's defensive performance has been crucial in several high-stakes matches this season. One standout moment came in the clash against Al Nassr, where he consistently tracked back to help his team recover from defensive mistakes. His tireless work rate and ability to read the game allowed him to intercept passes and disrupt Al Nassr's attacks, ultimately contributing to Al Ittihad's 1-1 draw. Another notable match was the away game against Al Hilal, where Al Ittihad faced a strong defensive setup. Bergwijn's defensive contributions were vital in limiting Al Hilal's chances, as he repeatedly won aerial duels and provided cover for his teammates. His efforts were rewarded with a man-of-the-match award,Ligue 1 Express showcasing his importance to the team. ## A Stellar Performance Against Real Madrid In a crucial AFC Champions League match against Real Madrid, Bergwijn's defensive work was pivotal in a tense 2-2 draw. He consistently stayed back to help Al Ittihad's defense, making crucial tackles and interceptions. His ability to break up plays in the middle allowed the team to maintain a compact defense, which was essential in preventing Real Madrid from creating clear chances. Despite being a forward, Bergwijn's defensive reliability allowed his teammates to push forward, creating multiple scoring opportunities. ## Conclusion Steven Bergwijn's dual role as both a defender and an attacker has been instrumental in Al Ittihad's success this season. His defensive contributions, combined with his attacking flair, make him a unique asset. As the season progresses, Bergwijn's ability to adapt to different roles will be crucial in Al Ittihad's quest for silverware. His performance in key matches has not only solidified his place in the team but also highlighted his importance to the club's overall success. |
