Thiago Silva impresses on debut: 93% passing, wins all duels | OneFootball

The most talked-about signing in Portuguese football this winter window, Thiago Silva returned at 41 years old, shining for FC Porto, dominating the classic match against Benfica. After Francesco Farioli's decision – who, due to Francisco Moura's injury, chose to dismantle the Polish duo Bednarek–Kiwior – it was legitimate to question how the Dragons' defense would perform; the answer was an almost flawless display by the Brazilian international.

The calmness he showed on the field impressed both the demanding blue and white fans and his teammates, who praised his authority in defense, always with his head up and measured movements.

He thus overcame a highly challenging test and, unless any setbacks arise, he is expected to be a starter in the trip to Estádio Afonso Henriques in Guimarães next Sunday – an opponent buoyed by their recent victory in the League Cup and determined to halt the Dragons' march towards the championship.

The numbers from Thiago Silva's debut in this second stint with FC Porto illustrate the impact of the reinforcement signed by André Villas-Boas, at no cost, this window. He faced three direct duels and emerged victorious in all; he won both aerial duels in the significant match against Benfica; recorded a 93 percent pass accuracy (40 out of 43), one interception, two ball recoveries, and six clearances. He had 53 touches on the ball – the most among FC Porto players in the classic – and only three possession losses, the lowest among the starters.

If there were any doubts about his reliability, the first chapter of this new stage at Dragão dispelled them completely. Thiago Silva continues to demonstrate a strong positional sense, anticipation, and the ability to launch teammates from the back.

Francesco Farioli publicly reiterated that the January arrivals would add solutions and contribute to the season's objectives – with the national title as a priority – as well as for the Portuguese Cup and an extended campaign in the Europa League. It is worth noting that the League Cup was prematurely out of reach after an unexpected defeat at Dragão against Vitória de Guimarães, precisely the next opponent of the blue and whites in the championship.

Thiago Silva was immediately integrated into the group, being warmly welcomed by his colleagues and standing out for his humility and willingness to collaborate – evident signs of the camaraderie and cohesion noted in the celebrations after qualifying for the Portuguese Cup semi-finals.

Three and a half weeks after signing the contract, he debuted for the blue and whites, forcing Kiwior's move to left-back in the match against Benfica. The Brazilian defender admitted he couldn't have wished for a better debut in this return to the Invicta City.

«What a night, Porto fans. Thank you for welcoming me so well. What energy. What team spirit. It was all incredible. Onwards», wrote the experienced Brazilian international central defender on his social media. Definitely, Thiago Silva has added quality and experience to the team.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.