Everton midfielder Amadou Onana has been praised by Belgian media after his role in their 1-0 win over Canada on Wednesday evening.
The 21-year-old came off the bench for Youri Tielemans at half-time, making his World Cup debut and changing the game in the process. Belgium took the lead on 44 minutes courtesy of Michy Batshuayi, but faced a a constant barrage of pressure from an energetic and dangerous Canadian outfit going into the break.
Former Everton boss Roberto Martinez decided to act at half-time, with Onana entrusted to change the dynamic of the midfield battle. And the Blues summer signing had the desired impact with a battling 45 minutes as he and his Red Devils side were able to hold out for an opening win.
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And after the result sent them top of Group F, Belgian media were full of praise for the young Evertonian.
De Standaard said: “The Devils started to run better with Thomas Meunier and especially Amadou Onana in the team. The 21-year-old Everton midfielder brings more presence and power than 25-year-old Youri Tielemans. He is one of the new names that is gradually allowed to push aside the licenses of the golden generation.”
HLN gave Onana a 7/10 rating for his contributions, adding: “Had to provide more duelling power. Succeeded in that. Showed calm on the ball. Made a strong impression.”
Onana received another 7/10 from Nieuwsblad , who wrote: “Replaced Tielemans. Made an impression: what a power. Can Martinez still get around this boy?”
Onana is now in a strong position to make his first start on Sunday, when they take on Morocco at the Al-Thumama Stadium, before facing Croatia in their final group game on Thursday December 1.
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