The Dutch have a particular preference for playing left-footed center-backs on the left and right-footed center-backs on the right, claiming it facilitates passing.
However, this also creates a weakness.
A gap can easily open up between the two center-backs.
And that was the exact route Wang Shuo intended to attack!
Wang Shuo pushed the ball forward, charging toward the right center-back, Pereira.
Both Pereira and Domingos chose to hold their ground.
With no cover ahead and the penalty area right behind them, they couldn't afford to back down.
Pereira kept his eyes glued on Wang Shuo, watching his every move.
Wang Shuo, in turn, was watching Pereira, constantly calculating the distance.
This required precise timing, especially considering the speed of Pereira's press.
As he reached the edge of the penalty area, Wang Shuo took a slightly heavier touch, pushing the ball ahead of him.
This gave Pereira a glimmer of hope.
'I can get to that ball!'
