LAFC: Brian Rodriguez impactful for Uruguay in World Cup qualifiers
By Daniel Garza
LAFC winger Brian Rodriguez was a difference-maker in Uruguay’s victory over Chile
Brian Rodriguez continues to impress in the 2020 season. The 20-year-old Uruguayan has been impactful for both club and country. On Thursday, he played a key role in getting Uruguay all three points against Chile in the first match of the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying campaign. Rodriguez drew a penalty kick in the first half of the victory as his cross resulted in a handball call against Chile. Luis Suarez converted the ensuing spot-kick. Other impressive statistics from his performance include six dribbles completed and three chances created.
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A case for the starting XI
Rodriguez’s performance should only help his case for becoming a consistent player in the starting XI for Oscar Tabarez’s team. He was one of the more lively players for Uruguay and displayed he can be a key offensive player in big matches.
This was his first important appearance for his country. Rogriguez’s previous appearances for the senior national team were in international friendlies which meant the match against Chile was his first real chance in a qualifying fixture. He certainly passed his first test.
Good form continues
The 2020 campaign has been Rodriguez’s first full season in Major League Soccer. It has gone quite well for him as he is currently near the top of the league in assists. His seven assists during the regular season currently has him tied for fourth in the league for most assists. While the goal-scoring has not come as easy, Rodriguez did score a fantastic goal in a recent victory over Real Salt Lake for his second of the season.
Make that 3-0 to @LAFC!
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) October 5, 2020
Brian Rodriguez with the delicate scoop. #RSLvLAFC pic.twitter.com/yukimQjowB
Creating chances has been the strong point of Rodriguez’s game this season. According to Football Reference statistics, the Uruguayan ranks top five in MLS in key passes, players dribbled past. and shot-creating actions. His creation of goal scoring opportunities is what makes him one of the best players for LAFC. Rodriguez is definitely one of the top young playmakers in the league.
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Improving his transfer prospects
The way Rodriguez has been playing for Uruguay indicates he is capable of playing in a top European league. He has already been linked to clubs in Italy’s Serie A and continued strong performances for Uruguay is only going to increase the interest from clubs around the world.
Along with his fellow countryman and LAFC teammate Diego Rossi, Rodriguez appears destined to be one of the next best MLS exports. This could very well be the last season that Rodriguez plays in MLS. He is on the path to becoming a very good player for whichever European club he ends up at.