Benchimol

Lone striker in battle

Gilson Benchimol recorded no stats in Sunday's 2-2 draw versus Uruguay.

Analysis: Benchimol spearheaded Cape Verde's attack as the lone striker and came close to making a major impact in Sunday's 2-2 World Cup draw against Uruguay, but failed to connect with Telmo Arcanjo on a breakaway opportunity in the 38th minute after getting in behind the defense. He spent the match battling center-backs and helping stretch Uruguay's back line as Cape Verde generated 12 total shots, a significant step forward from their scoreless draw against Spain. That said, he finished without a goal contribution, logging eight passes and drawing one foul across 58 minutes. Benchimol and Cape Verde now turn their attention to a win-or-go-home clash with Saudi Arabia with a historic first-ever knockout stage berth hanging in the balance.