We were told he was a brilliant general. He was always one step ahead, and Mat with all the knowledge in his head had to gamble everything to beat him.
Brilliant? check!!
Imagine if Graendal had succeeded with the Seanchan

We were told he was second only to LTT. If this is second best, how come we didn't get to see LLT in a One Power duel? The way he neutralized Logain's lightning and Taim's attack was masterful.
The fact that he was actually impressed by Taim's resolve after the beating tells you he is not the typical villain. And again, in
order to defeat Demandred, Lan had to gamble and do the opposite of everything he taught Rand about the sword.
Amazing with the One Power and the sword? check, check!!
Was the the sa'angreal really bonded to him?

We were told he was obsessed with LTT. CHECK!!!

The Forsaken did well in this book. The forces of the Light were less creative.