All eyes are on national teams as they announce their squads for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022, which kicks off on November 20 in Qatar. Building a team with the correct defensive structure and balance across roles is crucial. It is easier to win games using a system that emphasizes defense and discipline. Here, we provide a statistical breakdown of who you should keep an eye on among defensemen.
This season, the best teams in every league have one thing in common: they've given up the fewest goals. World Cup favorites Argentina have improved significantly defensively, going 35 games without a loss.
1. Lisandro Martinez - Argentina
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The summer signing of Lisandro Martinez has been a success for Manchester United. He has proven his detractors wrong on the field with a string of heroic displays. During the 2022-23 Premier League season, Martinez has recorded 24 tackles, 17 interceptions, 52 clearances, 68 recoveries, and 49 wins in individual duels. As a result, Martinez will play a pivotal role for Argentina. His current total is nine.
2. Joao Cancelo - Portugal
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Joao Cancelo, one of the best versatile full-backs, could be huge for Portugal if he finds his way into the starting lineup. Manchester City's manager Pep Guardiola has worked wonders on his game sense and toughness. Cancelo has accumulated 27 tackles, 17 interceptions, 3 clearances, 71 recoveries, and 87 duels won in Premier League 2022-23.
3. Thiago Silva - Brazil
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Thiago Silva, a central defender in the league for a long time, is a formidable opponent. His fitness level is impressive, even for a man of 38 years of age. For Chelsea, this season in the Premier League 2022-23, the defender has made 18 tackles, 17 interceptions, 40 clearances, 72 recoveries, and won 50 duels. Silva has made 107 appearances for Brazil and contributes with his awareness of danger and ability to read the game.
4. Kieran Trippier - England
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In his time with the Three Lions, right-back Kieran Trippier has made a strong case to be England's starter. The standards have been raised since he joined Newcastle United from Atletico Madrid. Trippier has had a fantastic season in the Premier League, racking up 24 tackles, 19 interceptions, 29 clearances, 99 recoveries, and 53 wins in duels. He has one goal and three assistants.
5. Dayot Upamecano - France
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Dayot Upamecano's contributions to Bayern Munich and France have been crucial. His reputation as a top-tier central defender is well-deserved. In a likely 3-4-2-1 alignment, Upamecano will try to demonstrate his abilities. As of now, he has played 7 times for France. According to Opta, Upamecano has contributed 103 ball recoveries, 4 blocks, 16 interceptions, and 4 blocks for Bayern in Bundesliga 2022-23.