World Cup 2018: 5 talking points as Switzerland defeat Serbia

#3 Valon Behrami's midfield masterclass

Serbia v Switzerland: Group E - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia

Valon Behrami has been one of the standout players for Switzerland in the two World Cup matches so far. His role in midfield has been very influential and it has helped the Swiss massively as they sit in a pretty position in Group E.

Behrami, who is usually depended upon for his defensive work, has been quite the opposite this tournament and has evolved into the role of being a playmaker where he is starting the build-ups for the attacks from midfield.

Combined with his 100 percent pass completion rate in the first half, the 33 year old did his job on the defensive end exceptionally too. Behrami won a couple of aerial duels and accumulated five successful tackles, two interceptions and brought an end to several Serbian attacking build-up plays.

Along with Granit Xhaka, the defensive midfield pairing controlled the game and ensured that a large portion of the play was going through the middle of the park, this further helped Switzerland have a grip on the game heading into the latter stages.

Valon Behrami vs. #SRB in the first half:41 passes attempted41 passes completedFaultless distribution from the #SUI general. pic.twitter.com/GeWrW8Ltbn

— Squawka Football (@Squawka) June 22, 2018