Fernandes Bossed Chelsea’s Kovacic In Midfield During Portugal 4-1 Croatia
REUTERS/Rafael Marchante
Bruno Fernandes was outstanding during his outing with Portugal, getting the better of Mateo Kovačić.
The UEFA Nations League has provided ample intermittent football until all the domestic leagues kick off. Despite the COVID-19 imposed protocols that have limited the participation of several players, the countries in question are having a gala time.
On Saturday, Portugal faced off against Croatia at Porto and a goalfest ensued. The defending European champions won the game 4-1, courtesy of goals from Joao Cancelo, Diogo Jota, Joao Felix, and Andre Silva. A late consolation from Bruno Petkovic was Croatia’s sole hurrah of the fixture.
Spectators were especially impressed with the showings of one player in particular.
Bruno Fernandes had a great performance during the game, continuing his incredible form with Manchester United from last season. The numbers and contributions he put in spoke the tale all too well and the midfielder aided his nation’s attractive football.
In particular, there were several reactions for the manner in which he bossed Mateo Kovačić in the midfield. The Chelsea man was unable to put up a good showing and the clash was something to admire.
Fans thronged to Twitter to make their appreciation known.
Bruno showing Kovacic etc levels
— AD (@UTDFuture) September 5, 2020
Bruno taking the piss out of Kovacic🤣 pic.twitter.com/DOfwy31YQv
— Naldo (@NaldoUtd) September 5, 2020
Bruno Fernandes dominated Mateo Kovacic in the midfield battle. More of this to come next season too. #PORCRO
— OleBall (@SolskjaerStyle) September 5, 2020
Bruno Fernandes for Portugal:
83 touches
50 passes completed (86% accuracy)
8/12 ground duels won
7 chances created
4 tackles won
4/6 long passes completed
3/5 crosses completed
3/3 take-ons completed
1 assistA man of the match performance! pic.twitter.com/FbnC5is98H
— UtdArena (@utdarena) September 5, 2020
Bruno Fernandes created five chances in the first half against Croatia, more than any other player on the pitch.
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) September 5, 2020
People don’t understand just how good of a footballer Bruno Fernandes is.
— ManUnitedMedia – Josh (@ManUnitedMedia) September 5, 2020
It is clear that such a showing will result in supporters itching for resumption all the more. Given the transfer window that Chelsea has had, the next time the two midfielders and their sides go head-to-head, an even more entertaining clash is guaranteed.
Fernandes wasn’t the only Red Devil to have a good outing with David De Gea and Daniel James having similar excellent performances during their respective international fixtures. Mason Greenwood was handed his debut with England and Anthony Martial and Victor Lindelof’s clash was a late talking point during France’s win over Sweden on Saturday.
How much will these players improve when Premier League football resumes for United on September 19?
