Thomas Lemar – La Liga Player of the Week

Credit: Sports Illustrated

Thomas Lemar’s goal and assist helped Atletico Madrid beat rivals Barcelona 2-0 at the Wanda Metropolitano.

Combining with Luis Suarez for both of the first half goals, the Frenchman’s display meant Atletico moved up into second place in La Liga.

Lemar opened the scoring in the 23rd minute after brilliant interplay from forwards Suarez and Joao Felix.

After picking up the ball close to the halfway line, Felix dribbled inwards causing four Barcelona players to try and close him down. This movement helped Lemar find space behind the opponent’s backline and the first-time pass from Suarez gave his teammate a straightforward finish.

This was the 25-year-old’s second league goal of the season, already bettering his last two league campaigns at the Spanish capital.

Just before half-time, Lemar and Suarez found themselves in a two-on-two situation against Gerard Pique and Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Before the defender could choose which attacker to cover, Lemar played a sweeping ball over to the Uruguayan who doubled the lead against his former side.

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The midfielder put on a good passing display as he completed 78% of his passes, which was higher than the team average, and included two key passes and one big chance created.

Lemar did not only help his side going forward but also did what was necessary from a midfielder playing in a Diego Simeone side. He won five ground duels in the middle of the park and 100% of his aerial duels.

He also gave good protection to his backline making four tackles and one interception. Lemar was only dribbled past once by a Barcelona player.

Since moving from Monaco in 2018 for £64.8 million, Lemar has disappointed most fans with performances in a red and white shirt.

However, this season, he’s had four direct goal involvements in just five league games. Atletico’s forwards have been on the same wavelength this season as the reigning league champions also sit second in their Champions League group.

After the international break, Atletico will face Liverpool before a home fixture against high-flying Real Sociedad who are currently third in the league. A win in this game could be huge for Simone’s team as Real Madrid and Barcelona face-off in the next game week.

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