Manuel Pucciarelli (Bologna vs Empoli)
A rather fortunate goal in the opening minutes kick-started Manuel Pucciarelli’s outstanding performance for a club who has been desperately struggling for form in recent weeks.
The Italian then went onto hit the inside of the post just minutes later, narrowly denied a second goal. Showing immense strength and poise, the 24-year-old then provided the assist for a Massimo Maccarone’s second goal of the match, just to prove his authority.
Pucciarelli’s partnership with Maccarone has been a key ingredient for Empoli’s success and they will be looking to continue this in the second-half of the season.
Key Stats
87% Passing Accuracy
Three Tackles
One Shot on Target
One Assist
One Goal
Mario Mandzukic (Carpi vs Juventus)
After a poor start to his time with the Bianconeri, the Croatian now finds himself in a purple patch, which his teammates would have been very thankful for in their clash against Carpi.
Mandzukic displayed the skills of a player with a much smaller frame, controlling the ball in the air and pivoting to get the shot away and provide Juventus with an equaliser. Minutes later, the same frame proved too strong for Riccardo Gagliolo as the No.29 met a Patrice Evra cross to put the away side ahead.
The upcoming Champions League fixture against Bayern Munich will be the defining test for Mandzukic, as he faces his former club.
Key Stats
73% Passing Accuracy
Two Clearances
Two Shots on Target
Two Goals
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Fernando (Sampdoria vs Palermo)
It has been some time since we have seen Fernando in the top five list, since the first matchday of 2015-16 to be exact and his return is a timely one, as Sampdoria look to gather some momentum after a horrible run.
An amazing free-kick was kept out by an equally amazing save by Stefano Sorrentino, while a brilliantly placed second half set piece gave Lorenzo De Silvestri the opportunity to extend the lead further.
Most impressive was perhaps his defensive efforts for the match, making some crucial interceptions which had Palermo players running in on goal.
Key Stats
89% Passing Accuracy
Four Tackles
Three Interceptions
Two Clearances
Two Aerials Won
Three Shots on Target
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