From Angel Di Maria’s derby day heroics in Argentina to Borussia Dortmund’s frustrating Bundesliga opener, there has been no shortage of entertainment this weekend. As part of a weekly feature, Flashscore has picked out the Winners and Losers from the latest action, dissecting the key moments and performances that defined the week in football. We delve deeper into the narratives, providing context and analysis to understand the significance of each result and individual contribution.
Winner: Allan Saint-Maximin (Club America)
Allan Saint-Maximin, the former Newcastle United winger, has always been known for his flair and entertainment value. His debut for Mexican side Club America was a testament to this reputation, offering a glimpse of what he can bring to his new team. Introduced as a substitute with Club America trailing Atlas 2-1, Saint-Maximin injected immediate energy and dynamism into the attack.
He showcased his signature dribbling skills, taking on defenders and creating opportunities for his teammates. His impact was undeniable, as Club America managed to equalize, setting the stage for a dramatic comeback. Saint-Maximin then capped off his debut with a clinical first-time finish in the 89th minute, putting his team ahead and ultimately securing a 4-2 victory.
However, it wasn’t just the goal that made Saint-Maximin’s debut memorable. His exuberant celebration was a spectacle in itself. He embarked on a celebratory sprint across the pitch, followed by a spectacular backflip, a heartfelt embrace with his teammates and coaches, and a final flourish of dancing in front of the adoring fans. This multi-faceted celebration perfectly encapsulated Saint-Maximin’s personality and his connection with the supporters.
His arrival at Club America has been met with considerable excitement, and his debut performance suggests that he will be a key figure in their quest for silverware this season. His ability to create chances, score goals, and entertain the crowd makes him a valuable asset to any team.
Losers: QPR
The situation at Queens Park Rangers is becoming increasingly concerning. Just three matches into the season, and the pressure is already mounting on manager Julien Stephan after a humiliating 7-1 thrashing at the hands of Coventry City. The defeat highlighted a number of deep-rooted issues within the squad, raising serious questions about the team’s organization, defensive solidity, and overall mentality.
The Hoops were completely overwhelmed by Coventry’s attacking prowess, finding themselves in a 5-0 hole by halftime. The manner in which they conceded the goals was particularly alarming, with a series of amateurish errors and defensive lapses contributing to their downfall. Coventry ruthlessly exploited these weaknesses, showcasing a clinical edge in front of goal.
While Coventry’s finishing was undeniably impressive, scoring seven goals from an expected goals (xG) value of just 1.27, QPR’s defensive frailties were the primary cause of their demise. The team’s inability to defend crosses, track runners, and maintain a solid defensive shape was exposed time and again.
Richard Kone’s late consolation goal did little to alleviate the embarrassment, and the result has left QPR fans deeply concerned about the direction of the club. The upcoming fixture at home to Charlton Athletic will be a crucial test for Stephan and his players, as they look to restore some pride and confidence. A positive result is essential to prevent the situation from spiraling further out of control.
Winner: Angel Di Maria (Rosario Central)
Angel Di Maria’s return to his boyhood club, Rosario Central, has been nothing short of a fairytale. Despite facing death threats that initially deterred him from making the move last year, the 37-year-old has embraced the opportunity to represent his hometown team and has quickly become a talismanic figure.
His impact was further cemented in the Clasico Rosarino against arch-rivals Newell’s Old Boys, where he scored a stunning free-kick winner to secure bragging rights for Rosario Central. The goal, a perfectly executed strike into the top corner, sparked wild celebrations among the Rosario faithful and solidified Di Maria’s status as a local hero.
The victory extended Rosario Central’s winning run in the derby to five games, further amplifying the significance of Di Maria’s contribution. Since returning to the club, he has scored three goals in six matches, showcasing his enduring quality and commitment to the cause.
Di Maria’s emotional reaction after the game underscored the deep personal significance of the victory. "I’ve dreamed of it my whole life," he exclaimed. "These 18 years, all I’ve thought about is coming back. I don’t know what more I can ask for." His passion and dedication have resonated with the fans, who have embraced him as one of their own.
Losers: Borussia Dortmund
Borussia Dortmund’s Bundesliga season opener against St. Pauli was a rollercoaster of emotions, ultimately ending in a frustrating 3-3 draw. The match was marred by a missed penalty, a red card, and a blown lead, leaving Dortmund fans wondering how they managed to drop two points.
Despite taking the lead through Serhou Guirassy, Dortmund failed to capitalize on their dominance in the first half. Guirassy’s missed penalty proved to be a turning point, as it allowed St. Pauli to remain in the game and eventually mount a comeback.
Dortmund appeared to have regained control after establishing a 3-1 advantage, but debutant Filippo Mane’s late red card for conceding a penalty shifted the momentum once again. Danel Sinani converted the penalty to reduce the deficit, setting the stage for a dramatic finale.
St. Pauli capitalized on their numerical advantage, with Eric Smith unleashing a stunning strike from distance to equalize in the dying moments. The draw marked the first time in 10 years that Dortmund have failed to win their first league game of the season, raising concerns about their ability to challenge for the title.
The result highlighted Dortmund’s defensive vulnerabilities and their tendency to concede late goals. These are issues that they will need to address quickly if they are to compete with Bayern Munich for the Bundesliga crown.
Winners: Morecambe
The story of Morecambe’s survival and subsequent victory is one of the most heartwarming tales of the week. Just last week, the club was on the brink of extinction, with only five registered players and facing the threat of suspension from the National League.
However, a new takeover saved the club’s 105-year history, lifting their suspension and allowing them to field a team against Altrincham. The appointment of 30-year-old Ashvir Singh Johal as the youngest professional manager and the first Sikh to lead a club in England added another layer of intrigue to the story.
The Shrimps signed a host of free agents to fill their squad, creating a team of players who had barely trained together. Despite the challenges, Morecambe produced an emotionally charged performance, fueled by the passion and determination to represent their club.
The match appeared to be heading for a draw until substitute Daniel Ogwuru, who had only joined the club one day prior, scored a dramatic winner in the eighth minute of stoppage time. The goal sparked scenes of jubilation among the Morecambe fans, who had endured a tumultuous period.
Morecambe’s victory is a testament to the power of resilience and the unwavering spirit of the football community. It is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, hope can prevail.
Losers: Rennes
Rennes’ trip to Lorient for the Derby Breton was a disaster from start to finish. Their lack of discipline proved to be their undoing, as they were reduced to nine men in the first half, effectively ending their chances of securing a positive result.
Mahdi Camara’s straight red card after just six minutes for a high challenge set the tone for a calamitous performance. Christopher Wooh followed him off the pitch shortly after, receiving a red card for a last-man challenge.
With nine men, Rennes struggled to contain Lorient’s attacking threat. They held out until before halftime, but eventually succumbed to a 4-0 defeat. The result highlighted Rennes’ defensive frailties and their inability to maintain composure under pressure.
According to Opta, no team has been reduced to nine men as quickly as Rennes in a Ligue 1 match since they began collecting data in 1992/93. Their ill-discipline cost them dearly, leaving them with a mountain to climb in their upcoming fixtures. The manager will need to address the team’s disciplinary issues if they are to avoid further embarrassment.