Ecuador secured a comfortable and easy 2-0 victory over New Zealand in a friendly game. However, the heart of their dominant performance was Arsenal‘s maestro defender Piero Hincapie. He delivered a classic performance that was a delight for the national team coaches as well as the club suitors. Piero Hincapie showcased a complete skill set that has made him one of the most highly regarded defenders in the world football. He has excelled in both the offensive as well as the defensive phases of the game.
Defensive Solitude
Hincapie was on the left side of the central defending pairing. He was a picture of composure and intelligence throughout the match. Hincapie had his defensive interventions with accurate time and decision to wipe out the New Zealand attack. He had them before they could actually gain any momentum to stay on the flow of their attack. However, apart from this hardcore defensive potential, he was also the one to contribute for the opening goal. This gameplay showed his modern defensive credentials. He kept moving forward and launched a pass. This perfectly weighted pass split though the defense of New Zealand and set up Jordy Caicedo for a simple finish. This demonstrated a different level of technical quality and vision that are rarely associated with the centre backs.
A Showcase of Modern Defending
This performance was a textbook example and a poetic justice to the modern defender. Piero Hincapie was not content with just winning a clean sheet, he needed more than that. He was a constant outlet in build up play, comfortable under pressure and consistently looking to progress the ball. His unique ability to go up and step into the midfield to initiate attacks adds a valuable dimension to Ecuador’s tactical structure. At 22 years old his maturity and all around play suggest that he is going to be a big name in the football world as well as in his career.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
