POSITION:Football Information Stack > Saudi Pro League News >
## João Cancelo: The Key Defensive Role at Al Hilal
### Introduction
In the world of football, it is not uncommon for players to play multiple roles in their careers. One such role that stands out is that of a defensive midfielder or defender. While many players focus on scoring goals and attacking the goal, a key defensive role can be equally as important. This article will explore the career of João Cancelo, a former professional footballer who played as a defensive midfielder at Al Hilal, highlighting his contributions to the team.
### Career Overview
João Cancelo was born on June 26, 1995, in Porto Alegre, Brazil. He began his professional journey with SC Porto, where he played from 2014 to 2017 before transferring to FC Porto. After two seasons with FC Porto, Cancelo joined Al Hilal, a Brazilian club based in São Paulo, where he made his mark in the league and promoted to Serie A. His tenure with Al Hilal saw him develop into a versatile player capable of playing both midfield and defensive roles.
### Defensive Performance
One of the standout aspects of Cancelo’s career at Al Hilal was his defensive performances. As a defensive midfielder, his primary duty was to protect the goal and prevent attackers from finding open spaces. He demonstrated this skill through his ability to disrupt opponents' passing routes and tackle dangerous defenders. During his time with Al Hilal, he earned recognition for his defensive work, earning the nickname "Defender Zero" due to his consistent defensive presence throughout matches.
### Team Dynamics and Impact
As a defensive midfielder, Cancelo had a significant impact on his team's defense. He helped maintain discipline and pressure on the opposition's attack, often leading the team to successful tackles and interceptions. His defensive skills were particularly useful during crucial moments when the team needed to win. For example, in the 2018 Copa Libertadores, Al Hilal faced off against Ecuador, and Cancelo's performance was pivotal in preventing the opposing team from scoring.
### Legacy and Recognition
After leaving Al Hilal, Cancelo continued to contribute to the team's success. He represented Brazil in international competitions and was selected to play for the national team under the tutelage of renowned coach Ricardo Santos. In 2019, Cancelo was named the top defensive midfielder in the FIFA World Cup, showcasing his talent and leadership in the international arena.
### Conclusion
João Cancelo's career at Al Hilal has been marked by his defensive prowess, which was instrumental in maintaining the team's defensive solidity. His ability to perform both defensively and as a central midfielder gave him a unique position that contributed significantly to the team's overall performance. As a testament to his dedication and skill, Cancelo went on to represent Brazil internationally and cemented his place in the history of football as a defensive midfielder.
This article underscores the importance of a defensive midfielder in modern football, emphasizing the significance of his role in maintaining the integrity of a team's defense and the challenges he faced while performing it.