Emelec got knocked out of the round of 32 of the Copa Sudamericana after they won the first match against CA Union away from home with 0-1. However, they lost the home match 1-2 and got knocked out through the away goals ruling. Emelec set up in a 4-2-3-1 and did well to build it out from the back when they chose for the more patient approach, but they also tried to find Barcelo with long balls at times which was not exactly effective bar one moment where Barcelo created a chance for himself. Emelec have some good players with a lot of ball-playing ability in midfield but there was no-one that would give a good final ball which meant that they only created a few chances.
Ratings:
- A1 – Very good, could play higher
- A2 – Strong potential to play higher
- B1 – Good, strong player at level
- B2 – Potential to be strong player at level
- C – Average for the level, re-watch
- D – Below average in this match
Joao Rojas
- Nationality: Ecuadorian
- Age: 23
- Date of birth: 16-08-1997
- Club: CS Emelec
- Career: Independiente del Valle (Y), Aucas, Emelec (L), Emelec
- Position: Attacking Midfield
- Secondary position: Winger
- Preferred foot: Right
Joao Rojas played in a free role on the left against CA Union, but moved to the attacking midfielder spot when Jose Cevallos got subbed off. When playing on the left, he worked together well with left-back Bagui. He either moved inside to create space for Bagui to dive into when carrying the ball or dropped deep while sticking close to the sideline to open up a passing lane when Bagui was put under pressure by Union. Joao Rojas once again proved to have an excellent first touch and combined this with good strength on the ball which meant that he did not get pushed off the ball easily. He is able to get past his opponent using quick feints and is very light-footed which helps him to have quick feet and be more agile.
The Ecuadorian international always stays calm on the ball and does not panic when he gets put under pressure. He is capable of evading pressure as mentioned above and his good first touch also allows him to play first touch passes and link-up with his teammates in the tight spaces. Joao Rojas sometimes took too long on the wing in the 1v1 duels where he would try to cut away from his opponent a few times before actually crossing the ball into the box. He did not have good crossing ability with his left foot but has a good kicking technique with his right foot and these were significantly better. However, he did not create any clear cut chances once again even though the rebound from his shot got scored by Barcelo.
Rating – A1
He can definitely play in a better team and would fit well in the Dutch league if he has an EU-passport. His ball-playing ability is outstanding and I think that his goals and assists would improve when playing in a better team.
Target Scouting 