There’s a lot to like about Benjamin Angoua. In his debut MLS season, the center back has played with grit and intensity while filling multiple positions along the back line. His partnership with Antonio Delamea has helped reinvent a defense that allowed 54 goals last season.
But for Angoua, 2017 has also presented challenges. The Ivorian international showed rust early in the season and temporarily lost his starting spot to fourth round SuperDraft pick Joshua Smith. Angoua eventually earned job back, yet poor discipline and concentration has marred the second half of his season. His performance against NYCFC highlights this struggle better than an other.