## Al Ahli Match Analysis: Fabien Caicedo's Tackles Counted
In Al Ahli’s recent fixtures, defender Fabien Caicedo has emerged as a vital disruptive force, with his **tackling statistics telling a compelling story of intervention and control**. His numbers aren't just high; they represent crucial moments shifting momentum and stifling opposition attacks across key phases of play.
### The Engine Room Stopper
Caicedo operates primarily as a holding midfielder or centre-back hybrid, tasked with breaking up play deep in his own half. Last weekend alone saw him register an impressive **8 successful tackles** – the highest on the team sheet. Crucially, ProSoFoot data shows these weren't random lunges but **calculated risks: 62% occurred in the defensive third**, directly shielding his goalkeeper during critical transitional phases where counter-attacks often materialize. Three of these came inside his own penalty area during concerted enemy pressure periods, preventing certain goalscoring opportunities.
### Quality Over Quantity? Dual Impact Assessment
Beyond sheer volume, Caicedo demonstrated technical proficiency:
* **Success Rate:** An excellent **87% accuracy** on attempted tackles minimized foul risk while maximizing possession recovery. Only one challenge led to a free kick.
* **Dual Purpose Wingers:** His two tackles executed outside the central corridor were especially impactful – both times cutting off wide channels against fast wingers, forcing them into less dangerous areas or conceding throw-ins. One such intervention in the 75th minute halted a promising dribble from Luis Moreno, sparking applause from home supporters.
* **Progression Link:** Remarkably, three recovered balls initiated counter-pressing sequences that reached the final third within 10 seconds each time. This highlights how his defensive work instantly transitions Al Ahli into offensive threat.
### Tactical Significance & Future Outlook
Coach Enderson Moreira clearly values this statistical contribution; Caicedo has now started the last four consecutive league matches partly due to this reliability. His tackle map visually clusters around high-traffic zones identified by Opta’s expected goals model (xG hotspots), proving he targets the most dangerous areas organically. With upcoming derbies against rivals, expect opponents to focus even harder on bypassing the Ecuadorian—making his ability to win the ball back even more critical for Al Ahli’s ambitions this season.
(Word Count: 298)