Madagascar vs. Mozambique, 25 May 2018
In this game, Dax played as one of the three central midfielders, but with plenty of license to push into the number 10 role. However, despite often playing high up the pitch, he was heavily involved in the team’s attempts to play through midfield by dropping deeper at times too, to dictate affairs. Madagascar rarely looked to attempt intricate build-up play as they were defending a lead for large parts of the game. With his side having just 40% possession, Dax was not heavily involved from a passing perspective, but he did a lot of impressive things with the ball he did have.
In the sixth minute, he opened the scoring with a superb goal. After playing a quick one-two on the edge of the box with the number nine, he fired a left-footed drive past the goalkeeper. Considering this is his weaker foot, this was a lovely goal and really good play to work the opportunity. Shooting with both feet and playing with quick touches, never over-playing, is a hallmark of his game.
In the 33rd minute, on a transition, he played a beautiful pass in-behind Cape Town City’s Edmilson Dove to create a clear-cut chance for his teammate, who fired past the post. As soon as he picked up the loose ball in midfield, his teammate was on the move and ‘Dax’ was looking to play the progressive, incisive pass. The weight of the through-ball and the understanding of the importance of penetrating whilst the opposition were unorganised showed his game intelligence.
Out of possession, Dax was impressive in his intensity to close down opponents. This pressing was good and he forced several errors out of opponents. He often looked to move out onto the flanks to overload the opposition ball carrier. Once his side had the ball, he often burst forward to join the attack and his close control under pressure was good. He also managed another left-footed shot and often uses both feet when dribbling, making him an elusive player to try to tackle and also meaning he draws lots of fouls.