Slovak Football Star Tomáš Rigo Poised for Key Role in World Cup Qualifying
Trnava, Slovakia – Tomáš Rigo, the dynamic midfielder nicknamed “Eminem” by his Stoke City teammates, is on the cusp of a meaningful breakthrough with the Slovak national team. As Slovakia prepares to face Luxembourg in a crucial World Cup qualifying match on Monday, all eyes are on the 23-year-old, who coach Francesco Calzona believes consistently provides a “benefit” whenever he takes the pitch.
Rigo’s rise has been swift. He captained Slovakia’s U-21 team at the European championship, earning the highest individual rating, and made his senior debut last June. While he’s featured in all three qualifying matches thus far,his appearances have been limited to impactful substitute roles. However,a change in formation and the need to fill the void left by a struggling midfielder could see rigo thrust into a starting position against Luxembourg.
“Every time Rigo enters the match, it is beneficial and it was felt,” Calzona admitted, hinting at a potential shift in strategy.
The Luxembourg Decider
Monday’s match in Trnava (kick-off 8:45 PM CET, broadcast on Sport 1) is a pivotal one for Slovakia. Calzona is expected to rotate the squad, acknowledging the physical demands of back-to-back qualifying games.
Rigo’s impact was already felt against Luxembourg in September, scoring a dramatic, last-minute winner. He also played a key role in Friday’s match against Northern
