Premier League TOTW Gameweek 26: Brentford Dominates post Big Away Win
In the latest Premier League Team of the Week (TOTW) for Gameweek 26, Brentford’s impressive 4-0 away win against Leicester City has earned them a significant presence, with four players making the cut. This week’s selections are based on the Squawka Score, which evaluates players based on their statistical performance in metrics relevant to their positions. Despite the focus on statistics, the team’s performances were undeniably human, full of grit, skill, and teamwork.
Marcus Rashford’s Continued Revival at Aston Villa
Marcus Rashford’s loan spell at Aston Villa continues to yield remarkable results, and he was once again a standout performer in their 2-1 victory over Chelsea. Rashford, who came on as a half-time substitute, provided two assists to help turn the game around. Since his debut with Aston Villa, Rashford has created seven chances, the second-highest in the league, including four big chances. He also leads in Expected Assists (1.78) and open-play xA (1.77), underscoring his impact on the field. Rashford’s ability to influence the game from the bench highlights his versatility and the positive environment he’s found at Villa Park.
Alisson’s Stellar Performance for Liverpool
The battle of the goalkeepers was a highlight of Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Manchester City, and Alisson Becker emerged victorious. Alisson made five saves, with only two other goalkeepers managing more this weekend. His clean sheet was crucial in frustrating City’s formidable attack, and he prevented 0.41 expected goals. Additionally, Alisson made one punched clearance, showcasing his commanding presence in the penalty area. His composure and reliability were pivotal in maintaining Liverpool’s lead and securing a crucial win in the title race.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s Exceptional Right-Back Display
West Ham United’s 1-0 win over Arsenal was a testament to their defensive resilience, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka was the standout performer on the right flank. Wan-Bissaka not only provided the game’s only assist with a precise cross for Jarrod Bowen but also completed 100% of his open-play crosses and three take-ons. Defensively, he was equally impressive, making six clearances and winning three possessions in the defensive third. His all-around performance was a key factor in West Ham’s victory, demonstrating his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively.
Brentford’s Defensive Backbone: Nathan Collins and Keane Lewis-Potter
Brentford’s defensive solidity was on full display in their 4-0 away win against Leicester City, and Nathan Collins was a key figure in this dominant performance. Collins and his teammates restricted Leicester’s attack to just 0.51 non-penalty Expected Goals. Collins made one crucial interception in his own box and a staggering 12 clearances, the most by any defender this weekend. He also won possession five times in the defensive third and showed his passing prowess by completing five passes into the final third.
On the left side of Brentford’s defense, Keane Lewis-Potter continued to impress, making the left-back spot his own. Despite not scoring or assisting, Lewis-Potter’s defensive display was crucial, blocking two crosses and being part of a defense that faced just three shots on target. Offensively, he had three touches in the opposition box and three successful passes into the penalty area, alongside six passes into the final third. His contributions highlight the balanced approach of Brentford’s defense and attack.
Brighton’s Defensive Duo: Jan Paul van Hecke and Carlos Baleba
Brighton and Hove Albion’s 4-0 away win against Southampton was another defensive masterpiece, and Jan Paul van Hecke was central to their success. The Belgian center-back and his team faced just two shots from inside the box, with a total non-penalty xG of 0.13. Van Hecke made eight clearances and won five aerial duels, with only three other center-backs achieving more aerial wins. He was also impeccable in ground duels, winning 100%, and won possession five times in the defensive third. His comprehensive defensive performance was instrumental in securing the clean sheet.
Carlos Baleba, another Brighton player, ensured that the midfield was a solid barrier between the defense and attack. Baleba made two interceptions that retained possession and won three tackles, contributing to his team’s dominant defensive show. He also made nine ball recoveries and won possession seven times in the middle third, more than any other midfielder this weekend. On the ball, Baleba completed two take-ons and had an open-play passing accuracy of 86.11%, with 13 accurate forward passes. His all-around play was a key component of Brighton’s win.
Brentford’s Offensive Duo: Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa
Brentford’s offensive prowess was highlighted by Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa in their 4-0 victory over Leicester. Mbeumo, a Cameroonian forward, added another goal and an intentional assist to his tally, showing his sharpness in front of goal. He had two shots on target and created one big chance, with a non-penalty xG on Target of 0.73. Mbeumo also had six touches in the opposition box and completed three crosses, linking up effectively with Wissa.
Yoane Wissa, Brentford’s striker, opened the scoring in the 17th minute, setting the tone for a dominant performance. Wissa’s shot placement was excellent, with a non-penalty xG of 0.57, which increased to 0.88 xG on Target. He had nine touches in the opposition box and took three shots in total. Wissa’s clinical finishing and movement were crucial in Brentford’s big win, cementing his status as a vital player for the team.
The selections for this week’s TOTW reflect a blend of individual brilliance and team cohesion, with Brentford’s comprehensive victory and Aston Villa’s comeback against Chelsea standing out. While statistics provide a framework for these picks, the human element—such as Rashford’s impact from the bench and Collins’s leadership in defense—remains the core of their success.
