Kerim Alajbegovic
LeverkusenLW (CM)
Half-Space Orchestrator
Sep 21, 2007 (18)
Left
5'10"
143 lb
Kept in check in loss to USA
Alajbegovic took two shots (off target), sent in four inaccurate crosses, took two corners, and suffered one foul in Wednesday's 2-0 loss to the USA.
Analysis: Alajbegović showed flashes of why he is considered one of Bosnia and Herzegovina's brightest young talents, but the 18-year-old found opportunities difficult to come by in the 2-0 defeat to the United States. Starting alongside veteran Edin Dzeko in attack, Alajbegović was often isolated as Bosnia spent much of the match defending deep against sustained American pressure. For an 18-year-old making his World Cup debut, Alajbegović exceeded expectations. He combined confidence, creativity, and composure throughout the tournament, establishing himself as one of Bosnia and Herzegovina's cornerstones for the future and one of the competition's most exciting young breakout players.
Scores in win
Alajbegovic scored one goal to go with two shots (one on goal), five crosses (zero accurate) and two corners in Wednesday's 3-1 victory against Qatar.
Analysis: Alajbegovic got on the scoresheet during Wednesday's comfortable win over Qatar. The attacker was solid throughout the match and made the most of his chances against Qatar. He will hope to build on that form heading into the knockout stage, which will almost certainly be a much tougher match.
Earns first World Cup start
Alajbegovic recorded two chances created and five crosses in Thursday's 4-1 loss to Switzerland.
Analysis: Alajbegovic earned his first start in World Cup play Thursday after a bench appearance in his last outing, as the attacker started on the left flank. He would fail to see a shot on net but did still earn some decent contribution, notching five crosses and two chances created. With their World Cup life on the line in the next match, it is unknown if the young 18-year-old will receive the start again.
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