Slovenian press react to ‘lonely’ Benjamin Sesko performance vs Switzerland

Manchester United summer signing Benjamin Sesko played the full 90 minutes of Slovenia’s World Cup qualifier against Switzerland.

Heading into the international break, Benjamin Sesko scored against Sunderland to make it two goals in his last two Manchester United matches.

The 22-year-old Slovenian, who was signed for £66 million in the summer, looked full of confidence after finally cementing a spot in Ruben Amorim’s starting XI.

Sesko has faced criticism, but it has been wholly undeserved, with fans and Amorim pleased with his contributions so far this season.

Photo by Daniela Porcelli – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images

The international break started with Sesko featuring in a 0-0 draw against Kosovo, which put Slovenia at risk of missing out on reaching the 2026 World Cup.

On Monday evening, Slovenia again played out a goalless draw with Switzerland, meaning Sesko’s goal drought for Slovenia will extend to a full calendar year.

United’s No.30 played the full 90 minutes of the match, and it seems Slovenian media sympathised with him after the full-time whistle.

Newspaper Ekipa gave Sesko a 6.5 rating out of 10 for his performance, adding: “We don’t know, maybe he was singing that 20-year-old Akon hit – Lonely.

“He was too lonely for most of the game, sending the only chance into the outside of the net.”

Nogomania quoted Slovenia manager Matjaz Kek, who said his attackers “don’t have bloodlust” after failing to have a single shot on target against the Swiss.

Benjamin Sesko’s match stats for Slovenia vs Switzerland

Slovenia headed into their qualifier against Switzerland as underdogs, and they spent much of the match pinned back, ending the game with only 34% possession.

It explains why Sesko found it difficult to get involved, with United’s forward having to track back and help his side defend.

As per SofaScore, Sesko was given a 6.8 rating for his performance, but a glance at his match stats shows just how little of the ball he saw.

Benjamin Sesko vs Switzerland Stats Minutes played 90 Touches 31 Passes completed 71% (15/21) Shots attempted 1 Dribbles completed 0% (0/1) Duels won 56% (5/9) Ball recoveries 5

Benjamin Sesko’s match stats for Slovenia vs Switzerland.

READ MORE: Ruben Amorim told Benjamin Sesko is doing an admirable job at what ‘very few’ players are capable of doing

Sesko did manage 31 touches of the ball, and his passing stats were admirable considering the pressure he often faced in possession.

However, his only shot of the match was off target, with Slovenia struggling to provide him with adequate service throughout the clash.