Merih Demiral
CB
Controlled Centre Back
Mar 5, 1998 (28)
Right
6'3"
190 lb
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Highly offensive in defeat
Demiral recorded five shots (two on goal) and one cross (zero accurate) in Friday's 1-0 loss to Paraguay.
Analysis: Demiral pushed heavily into the opposition half as Turkey took complete control of the ball after Paraguay's red card, with the opposition sitting deep to defend. He made himself an extra attacking weapon with five shots, getting into the box to meet headers and firing from outside, but could not find the net with any of them. He topped Turkey in clearances with nine but struggled badly in duels, winning only five of 16 in what was a frustrating night despite the extra man. Up next is the final game against the United States, and with Turkey eliminated, it remains to be seen whether coach Vincenzo Montella will give opportunities to players who haven't had much playing time, or aim to finish in the best way possible, with Caglar Soyuncu or Ozan Kabak as possible replacements.
Solid defensively, limited on ball
Demiral registered one shot (zero on goal) and one chance created in Sunday's 2-0 loss to Australia.
Analysis: Demiral was Turkiye's rock at the back over the full 90 minutes, dominating in the air and repeatedly coming up with key defensive plays while helping hold Australia to just nine shots despite the Socceroos controlling large stretches of the match through their disciplined approach. He had little chance on either goal, as Nestory Irankunda's strike exposed Turkiye's defensive structure as a whole and Conor Metcalfe's long-range rocket left him with no realistic opportunity to intervene. With 64 international caps to his name, Demiral's experience and leadership will be vital if Turkiye are going to post clean sheets against the United States and Paraguay.
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