## Cancelo's Tackle Statistics for Al Hilal: A Look at His Career with the Club
Since arriving at Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia after his high-profile move from Manchester City, João Cancelo has become a key figure in their dominance domestically and continentally. While renowned for his marauding runs down the flank, exceptional dribbling skills, and creative passing, an often overlooked aspect of his game is his defensive contribution – specifically, his tackling. Let's dive into the numbers defining this part of his role for the Blue Waves.
**Progressive & Risk-Taking Duel Specialist**
Statistical analysis reveals Cancelo operates very differently than traditional fullbacks focused solely on destroying opposition attacks. He averages **roughly 1.5 tackles per 90 minutes** for Al Hilal. Crucially, these aren't just backtracking last-ditch efforts; they are frequently *progressive interventions* made inside his own half or even midfield. He actively presses high up the pitch alongside teammates like Malcom and Neymar Jr., attempting to win possession closer to goal. This proactive approach inherently carries risk – giving away free kicks or cards sometimes – but aligns perfectly with Manager Jorge Jesus' gelatinous, attacking philosophy where defenders become extra men forward. His tackle success rate generally sits around the **65-70% mark**, showing commitment even if every challenge isn't won cleanly. He prioritizes engagement over safety.
**More Than Just Numbers: Contextual Impact**
The stats tell only part of the story. Cancelo’s tackling style embodies Al Hilal's identity under Jesus: relentless pressure and verticality. He doesn’t shy away from physical battles despite playing as a wing-back in wide spaces. Many of his interventions disrupt counter-attack transitions launched against Al Hilal's high defensive line. For instance, when an opponent tries to break quickly after losing possession near their box, it’s often Cancelo bursting across to make a crucial stop near the touchline or force play sideways/backwards. It frequently initiates Al Hilal's famous rapid counter-punching style themselves.
**Defensive Leverage Beyond Pure Tackles**
While tackling is core, his overall defensive profile adds further value:
* **Interceptions:** He consistently breaks up through balls intended for strikers (~1.8 int/90).
* **Recoveries:** Excels at winning back loose balls after teammates challenge initially (avg ~2 rec/90).
* **Aerial Duels:** Contributes surprisingly well overhead despite being roving forward frequently (winning ~40%+ duels).
**Conclusion: An Indispensable Aggressive Outlet**
Cancelo’s tackle statistics for Al Hilal paint the picture of a player fully bought into the system. His ~1.5 tackles/90 aren't about anchoring defensively; they represent calculated risks taken higher up the field to regain momentum and launch devastating counters. With solid success rates and supporting metrics like interceptions, he provides vital defensive energy that fuels Al Hilal's explosive attacks. Far from being a liability, his aggressive tackling is integral to how he helps dictate games and maintain their intense pressing rhythm across all fronts. It’s a key component of his influential impact since joining the Saudi giants.