Player Ratings: Who Stepped Up When It Mattered

Ever wonder which players actually made the difference in last weekend's big games? Let's cut through the noise and see who delivered when it counted. You don't need a fancy stats app to spot the stars—just watch how they played. Lionel Messi didn't just show up for Inter Miami's MLS opener—he made it count. Two assists, including a dramatic stoppage-time equalizer from Telasco Segovia, proved why he's still the boss. Even with a red card and injuries hurting the team, Messi's vision kept Miami in the game. That's the kind of clutch play you pay for. Barcelona's eight-game winning streak? It ended thanks to Real Betis' stubborn defense, but Gavi's early goal showed why he's a game-changer. He scored, then set up the equalizer for Natan. Betis held firm, but Gavi's impact was undeniable. That's the kind of performance that makes you rethink your fantasy team. Roma's win over Venezia? All thanks to Paulo Dybala's penalty. One spot-kick, one goal, and Roma's season suddenly feels a lot brighter. Dybala's been quiet lately, but he knows when to deliver. That's the kind of moment you remember years later. And let's not forget Tottenham's 2-0 win over Brentford. Pape Matar Sarr sealed it with a late strike, but Vitaly Janelt's own goal set the stage. It wasn't pretty, but it got the job done. That's football for you—sometimes you win messy, but you still win. These aren't just random highlights. When players like Messi or Dybala step up, it changes the whole game. It's why we watch. It's why we care. You can't fake that kind of impact. So next time you're scrolling through the highlights, look closer. Who made the play? Who got the goal? That's where the real story is. Not in the headline, but in the details. And honestly? That's what makes sports worth following.
7Sep

England vs Andorra player ratings: Tuchel's flat Three Lions win 2-0 but spark is missing

Posted by Lerato Sape in Sports
England vs Andorra player ratings: Tuchel's flat Three Lions win 2-0 but spark is missing

England beat Andorra 2-0 at Villa Park to stay perfect in World Cup qualifying, but the performance lacked tempo and imagination. An own goal and a Declan Rice strike did the job, yet the attack looked blunt. Marcus Rashford struggled, Harry Kane was isolated, and debutants had mixed nights. Thomas Tuchel said there were more positives than negatives, while knowing standards must rise.

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