Joao Paulo, representing FCSB, is making waves in the World Cup elimination rounds with Cape Verde. The 28-year-old player is set to face Argentina and Lionel Messi in the knockout stage, following a remarkable journey for his team.
Cape Verde has made history by advancing past the group stage for the first time, drawing with Spain (0-0), Uruguay (2-2), and beating Saudi Arabia (0-0). Joao Paulo, who plays as a left-back, participated in these matches, contributing significant minutes, especially in the decisive match against Saudi Arabia.
During his 123 minutes on the pitch, Joao Paulo has demonstrated impressive statistics, notably achieving 67% successful actions. He excelled in passing and winning duels, completing 70% of his 24 forward passes and winning 64% of his duels. However, his crossing remains a weakness, having failed to complete any of the four crosses he attempted into the box.
Performance Breakdown
- Minutes Played: 123
- Successful Actions: 100 (67%)
- Shots on Target: 2 (0)
- Successful Passes: 60 (80%)
- Successful Forward Passes: 24 (70%)
- Successful Crosses: 4 (0)
- Duels Won: 25 (64%)
- Interceptions: 11
- Possessions Lost: 19
- Recoveries: 18
In his match against Spain, Joao Paulo effectively marked Lamine Yamal, showcasing his defensive capabilities. As Cape Verde prepares to face Argentina, he will be challenged to defend against Messi, the all-time World Cup leading scorer, who has already netted six goals in this tournament.
Joao Paulo’s performance has been crucial for Cape Verde, contributing to their strong defensive record, including four interceptions and victories in aerial duels, especially against Saudi Arabia. – FIFA
Future with FCSB
After the World Cup, Joao Paulo will not return to FCSB until mid-July. If Cape Verde is eliminated by Argentina, he is expected to take a two-week break from football, missing the initial matches of the new season.
FCSB may not have him available for at least two championship matches against FC Argeș and Csikszereda, as well as a crucial tie against FK Auda in the Conference League qualifiers. Joao Paulo joined FCSB earlier this year for €600,000 from Oțelul and has played 17 matches, scoring two goals.
Currently, he is one of two players from the Superliga competing in the World Cup, alongside Jovo Lukic from Bosnia, who is also in the knockout stage.
