Fansided

‘Chucky’ Lozano named 2018 Concacaf Player of the Year

By Jahir M. Martinez

Mexico's forward Hirving Lozano celebrates after scoring during the Russia 2018 World Cup Group F football match between Germany and Mexico at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on June 17, 2018. (Photo by Mladen ANTONOV / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - NO MOBILE PUSH ALERTS/DOWNLOADS (Photo credit should read MLADEN ANTONOV/AFP/Getty Images)
Mexico's forward Hirving Lozano celebrates after scoring during the Russia 2018 World Cup Group F football match between Germany and Mexico at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on June 17, 2018. (Photo by Mladen ANTONOV / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - NO MOBILE PUSH ALERTS/DOWNLOADS (Photo credit should read MLADEN ANTONOV/AFP/Getty Images) /
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Hirving “Chucky” Lozano became a national hero on June  17, 2018, when he scored against defending champion Germany in the 2018 World Cup.

When “Chucky” Lozano scored in minute 35 against Germany during El Tri’s opening match of Russia 2018, the goal caused an artificial earthquake in Mexico, as fans roared and jumped up and down.

El Tri would go on to defeat Germany 1-0 and move out of the group stage (at Germany’s expense) while “Chucky” became a global icon. Beyond that memorable moment against the Teutons, Lozano demonstrated his willingness to support the defense and then move forward to create plays on offense. Lozano was in his way to becoming the face of the national team of Mexico.

At just 23 years of age, “Chucky” Lozano became the youngest player to capture the Concacaf Player of the Year award, edging Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas of Costa Rica and Italian striker Sebastian Giovinco who plays for Toronto in MLS.

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It was a truly spectacular year for Lozano. Not only has he become an indisputable national team regular, but he is a key player for his club team, PSV Eindhoven.

Since joining PSV in summer 2017 from Pachuca, Lozano has become a vital cog in the PSV machine, helping them win the Eredivisie title last season by leading the club in scoring with 17 goals. “Chucky” has 11 goals so far this season and PSV enjoys a 2-point lead atop the Eredivise table.

Lozano has been a consistent performer in the league and in the Champions League, posting a total of 61 appearances since joining the team, while recording 34 goals and 20 assists. With the national team, Lozano now has 34 appearances and eight goals.

Hirving Lozano is a man whose stock is rising. His name has been linked to Arsenal and Chelsea in the Premier League. while Napoli has also reportedly inquired about his availability. Well done and well deserved, Chucky!

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