Alright, football fans! Let's dive into the thrilling showdown between Riyadh XI and PSG. This match was more than just a friendly; it was a spectacle! We're breaking down the player ratings and giving you the lowdown on who shone and who needs to up their game. Get ready for some in-depth analysis!

Riyadh XI Player Ratings

The Riyadh XI, a team composed of stars from Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal, aimed to put on a memorable performance against the star-studded PSG. Let's see how each player fared:

Goalkeeper

• Mohammed Al-Owais: (7/10) Al-Owais had a busy night, facing relentless pressure from PSG's attack. He made several crucial saves, demonstrating excellent reflexes and command of his area. While he couldn't keep a clean sheet, his performance was commendable, preventing what could have been an even higher scoreline. His distribution was also generally solid, contributing to the team's attempts to build from the back. Overall, a strong performance from the Saudi international. He showcased why he's considered one of the top goalkeepers in the region, standing tall against some of the world's best.

Defenders

• Jang Hyun-soo: (6/10) Jang showed moments of resilience but struggled against PSG's dynamic attackers. His positioning was sometimes questionable, leading to vulnerabilities in the defense. Hyun-soo needs to improve his anticipation and decision-making to better handle top-tier forwards.
• Ali Al-Boleahi: (5/10) Al-Boleahi had a tough time containing the likes of Neymar and Mbappe. He was often caught out of position, and his tackles lacked precision. He needs to work on his defensive awareness and closing down opponents more effectively. This match highlighted the gap in quality between the Saudi League and European football.
• Saud Abdulhamid: (6.5/10) Abdulhamid showed flashes of brilliance with his energetic runs and crosses. However, defensively, he was tested by PSG's wingers. His attacking contribution was a plus, but he needs to balance it with improved defensive duties. His work rate was impressive, constantly tracking back and trying to support the defense.
• Ghislain Konan: (5.5/10) Konan faced a stern test against PSG's attacking prowess. While he displayed some tenacity, he often found himself outpaced and outmaneuvered. He needs to refine his defensive techniques and improve his speed to compete against world-class players. His performance highlighted the challenges of defending against elite forwards.

Midfielders

• Luiz Gustavo: (7/10) Gustavo provided a crucial shield in front of the defense. His tackling was strong, and his interceptions were well-timed. Gustavo's experience and composure were evident, helping to break up PSG's attacks. He also contributed to the team's build-up play with accurate short passes. Overall, a solid and reliable performance from the Brazilian midfielder, showcasing his value to the team.
• Abdullah Al-Khaibari: (6/10) Al-Khaibari worked hard in midfield but struggled to impose himself on the game. His passing was inconsistent, and he lacked the creativity to unlock PSG's defense. He needs to improve his decision-making and add more flair to his game. The intensity and pace of the match seemed to overwhelm him at times.
• Salem Al-Dawsari: (7.5/10) Al-Dawsari was one of the standout performers for Riyadh XI. His dribbling skills and attacking threat caused problems for PSG's defense. He scored a well-taken goal and consistently looked dangerous. Al-Dawsari's performance highlighted his potential and importance to Saudi Arabian football. His confidence and willingness to take on defenders were a breath of fresh air for the team.

Forwards

• Cristiano Ronaldo: (8/10) Ronaldo, as always, was the center of attention. He scored two goals, showcasing his clinical finishing and aerial ability. Ronaldo's presence lifted the team, and his determination was evident throughout the match. He led the line with passion and provided a constant threat to PSG's defense. Despite his age, his hunger for goals remains insatiable, and he proved he can still compete at a high level. Cristiano Ronaldo was a source of inspiration for the entire team.
• Anderson Talisca: (6.5/10) Talisca showed glimpses of his quality but was largely overshadowed by Ronaldo. He had a few decent shots on goal but lacked the final product. He needs to improve his link-up play with Ronaldo to maximize his effectiveness. Talisca's potential is undeniable, but he needs to be more consistent in delivering impactful performances.
• Odion Ighalo: (5/10) Ighalo struggled to make an impact, often isolated upfront. His hold-up play was poor, and he failed to create any meaningful chances. He needs to improve his movement and contribute more to the team's attacking play. This match was a reminder of the challenges he faces against top-tier defenses.

PSG Player Ratings

PSG, with their galaxy of stars, aimed to dominate the match and showcase their superiority. Here's how their players performed:

Goalkeeper

• Keylor Navas: (6.5/10) Navas had a relatively quiet night but made a couple of important saves. His distribution was accurate, and he commanded his area well. Navas wasn't heavily tested, but he did what was expected of him, maintaining a solid presence in goal.

Defenders

• Achraf Hakimi: (7/10) Hakimi was a constant threat down the right flank. His pace and attacking runs caused problems for Riyadh XI's defense. He provided an assist and was solid defensively. Hakimi's energy and commitment were evident throughout the match, making him a valuable asset to PSG.
• Marquinhos: (7.5/10) Marquinhos led the defense with authority and composure. His tackling was precise, and his interceptions were well-timed. Marquinhos also contributed to the team's build-up play with accurate passing. Overall, a commanding performance from the Brazilian center-back.
• Sergio Ramos: (7/10) Ramos showed his experience and defensive prowess. He made several crucial clearances and was a calming presence in the backline. Ramos also displayed his aerial ability, winning numerous headers. His partnership with Marquinhos looked solid and reliable.
• Juan Bernat: (6.5/10) Bernat was solid defensively and supported the attack when possible. He didn't stand out but put in a reliable performance. Bernat ensured PSG maintained their defensive shape and contributed effectively to the team's overall balance.

Midfielders

• Renato Sanches: (6/10) Sanches showed glimpses of his potential but was inconsistent. His passing was sometimes erratic, and he struggled to impose himself on the game. Sanches needs to improve his decision-making and add more consistency to his performances.
• Vitinha: (7/10) Vitinha was lively in midfield, displaying good energy and passing range. Vitinha linked up well with the forwards and helped to create several scoring opportunities. His work rate and vision were impressive, making him a key component of PSG's midfield.
• Carlos Soler: (6.5/10) Soler provided some creativity in midfield but lacked the final product. His set-piece delivery was decent, but he didn't make a significant impact on the game. Soler needs to be more decisive in the final third to maximize his effectiveness.

Forwards

• Lionel Messi: (8.5/10) Messi was a joy to watch, displaying his mesmerizing dribbling skills and vision. He scored a goal and created numerous chances for his teammates. Messi's performance was a reminder of his genius and enduring quality. He continues to defy expectations and inspire fans around the world. Lionel Messi once again proved why he is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time.
• Neymar: (7.5/10) Neymar was a constant threat with his trickery and pace. He won a penalty and created several scoring opportunities. Neymar's skills were on full display, but he could have been more clinical in front of goal. His performance was entertaining and highlighted his importance to PSG's attack.
• Kylian Mbappe: (8/10) Mbappe showcased his blistering pace and finishing ability. He scored a goal and terrorized the Riyadh XI defense. Mbappe's speed and precision make him a nightmare for defenders. He continues to establish himself as one of the world's top strikers.

Substitutes

Several substitutes came on in the second half, making varying impacts on the game. Players like Hugo Ekitike for PSG and several fresh faces for Riyadh XI added energy, but the core ratings remained consistent with the starters' performances.

Key Takeaways

The Riyadh XI vs. PSG match was a thrilling encounter filled with goals and excitement. While PSG ultimately proved too strong, the Riyadh XI put up a commendable fight, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Salem Al-Dawsari particularly shining. For PSG, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Neymar all demonstrated their world-class abilities. This match highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, providing valuable insights for future games.

So, there you have it – a detailed breakdown of the player ratings from the Riyadh XI vs. PSG match. What did you think of the performances? Let us know in the comments below!