Budweiser Man of the Match: Agustin DELGADO (ECU)

15 June 2006

Agustin Delgado, known primarily for his prowess in the air, was named Budweiser Man of the Match for his contributions in all phases of the game during Ecuador's 3-0 win over Costa Rica.

Delgado gave a great all-round display, not just leading his team from the front, but also coming back to win balls and to help maintain possession when his team were in the lead. The highlight of his performance came in the 54th minute, when he burst into the box, controlled the ball on his chest and blasted a shot past goalkeeper Jose Porras at the near post to give Ecuador a 2-0 lead.

FIFA Technical Study Group member Teofilo Cubillas was fulsome in his praise of Delgado and the entire Ecuador team. "In a team where everybody worked for a common goal, the flag bearer of the day was Delgado for his goal, for his role in the team," he said.

"He not only does the work of a forward, but he also drops back to lend a hand. He is a player that places the benefit of the team above all. Recognition of Delgado is also recognition of the entire team, which has now qualified for the next round.”