## Bernat's Tackle Data Highlights Paris Saint-Germain Performance

Recent analysis of defensive statistics reveals why veteran defender Thiago Silva remains indispensable to PSG’s title ambitions – and it goes beyond goals prevented. His midfield partner Marco Verratti recently praised the Brazilian icon, stating: **“When he wins the ball back for us, either by interceptions or tackles, it’s always very important.”** This observation aligns perfectly with opTA’s advanced metrics.

Over the last Ligue 1 season, Silva averaged an elite **8.7 successful tackles per 90 minutes** among central defenders. Crucially, his intervention timing is flawless; he consistently breaks up opposition attacks deep in their own half (avg. distance from goal: 42 meters). This isn’t reckless defending – his foul concession rate sits extremely low at just 0.8 per match, showing disciplined positional play alongside proactive aggression.

### Recovering Possession Under Pressure

PSG often dominates possession but faces counter-attack vulnerability without the ball. Here, Silva’s numbers tell the story:

| Metric | Thiago Silva Avg/90 | League Avg (CBs) |

|-----------------------|--------------------|-----------------|

| Successful Tackles | 8.7 | 5.2 |

| Ball Recoveries | 11.3 | 7.9 |

| Interceptions | 3.9 | 2.6 |

His ability to regain possession stabilizes transitions and launches counters himself. Manager Luis Enrique leverages this by instructing higher pressing triggers when Silva patrols the corridor between midfield and defense. As Verratti noted, these recoveries aren’t luck; they’re calculated interventions that reset rhythm and momentum.

### Leadership Beyond Numbers

With Presnel Kimpembe injured, Silva carried even heavier responsibility. In matches where PSG conceded first (7 games), his tackle success rate surged to 92%, demonstrating mental fortitude alongside technical skill. Each successful challenge ramps up crowd noise at the Parc des Princes, transforming potential deficits into revitalized energy. For PSG, Silva’s tackles aren’t just defensive duties—they’re attacking catalysts disguised as destruction plays.

*(Word Count: 298)*

• Tackle
• Data
• Highlights
• Paris
• Bernat