Stuttgart midfielder responds on the pitch against Celtic
El Khannouss answers critics with stunning brace as Stuttgart crush Celtic
Bilal El Khannouss led Stuttgart to 4-1 win over Celtic in the Europa League play-off delivering strong response to recent criticism.
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Big night for El Khannouss in Europe
Morocco international Bilal El Khannouss sent clear message to his critics with outstanding performance for Stuttgart as the German side beat Celtic 4-1 on Thursday evening in Europa League play-off round.
The display came after El Khannouss faced public criticism from Stuttgart’s coaching staff who questioned his form following his return from international duty with Morocco at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Early goals set the tone
El Khannouss opened the scoring in the 15 minute with calm and well-placed finish. Celtic pulled level in the 21 minute but the Moroccan midfielder responded quickly scoring his second goal just seven minute later to restore Stuttgart’s lead.
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His energy and confidence lifted the home side who controlled the match after the break. Stuttgart added two more goals in second half sealing comfortable victory and taking big step toward the round of 16.
Man of the match performance
After the final whistle, El Khannouss named Man of the Match. He received strong 8.4 rating reflecting his two goal and his influence in midfield throughout the game.
The performance was seen as direct answer to doubts about his recent form proving his importance to Stuttgart in key European matches.
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Rising in the Europa League scoring race
El Khannouss brace also had impact beyond the match result. He moved up to second place in the Europa League top scorers list with five goal this season.
He now shares that position with Dion Beljo of Dinamo Zagreb. The top spot is held by Igor Jesus of Nottingham Forest and Petar Stanić of Ludogorets who both have seven goals.
Ten players share third place with four goals including Moroccan duo Hamza Igamane of Lille & Anass Zaroury of Panathinaikos.
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Season numbers confirm his value
This season El Khannouss has played 27 match for Stuttgart in all competitions. He has scored two goal and provided four assist underlining his role as a key creative player despite short dips in form.