**Steven Bergwijn's Defensive Work at Al Ittihad: An Analysis**

In the realm of professional football, Steven Bergwijn has carved out a niche for himself as one of the most reliable defensive players in Europe. His performance for Al Ittihad, the Turkish club he joined in 2017, has been particularly noteworthy, showcasing his ability to provide solid support behind the backline and contribute significantly to the team’s defensive efforts.

### Defensive Strategy

At Al Ittihad, Bergwijn primarily plays as a central defender, often alongside fellow veteran defenders like Mustafa Sadiq and Hakan Çalhanoğlu. His primary role is to maintain the shape of the defense and protect the goal from opposing attackers. Bergwijn’s defensive approach is characterized by his calmness under pressure, excellent positioning, and strong tackling skills. He understands the importance of not letting opposition players through on one side without offering counter-attacks or disrupting their play.

### Key Defensive Performances

One of Bergwijn’s standout performances came during the 2018–19 season when Al Ittihad secured the Turkish Super Lig title with a record-breaking 104 points. In this campaign, Bergwijn was instrumental in maintaining the defensive integrity of the team. His consistent presence at the heart of the defense helped prevent any break-throughs that could have jeopardized the team’s title defense.

Bergwijn’s ability to read the game and make timely interventions is another hallmark of his defensive work. During matches,Football Fans' World Network he demonstrates a keen eye for detail and the ability to anticipate opponents’ movements. This allows him to disrupt play and create opportunities for his teammates to score goals.

### Impact on Team Performance

The impact of Bergwijn’s defensive work extends beyond individual contributions. His presence in the backline helps set up a solid foundation for the entire team. By providing stability and protection, he enables other players to focus more on attacking positions. This cohesion leads to better overall team performance, as the team can exploit gaps in the opponent’s defense more effectively.

### Challenges and Adaptation

Despite his success, Bergwijn has faced challenges in adapting to different playing styles and environments. However, he has shown resilience and adaptability throughout his career. His ability to learn quickly and integrate into new systems has been crucial to his continued success at Al Ittihad and other clubs.

### Conclusion

Steven Bergwijn’s defensive work at Al Ittihad exemplifies his dedication to the sport and his ability to contribute significantly to the team’s defensive efforts. Through his calm demeanor, excellent positioning, and strong tackling skills, Bergwijn has become a key player in the Turkish league. As he continues to evolve as a player, his defensive prowess will undoubtedly continue to be a valuable asset for any team looking to defend effectively.

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