Real Madrid began the game in control, asserting their dominance by taking an early lead. But Leganés’ desperation grew, leading towards a hectic second half where a change in shape saw a tense conclusion to the domestic campaign…and a relegation. Tactical analysis and match report by Emmanuel Adeyemi-Abere. Leganés have endured a rough season. Mired […]
If there was one game that fit the pattern of a ‘Mourinho masterclass’, it was this. For all the possession that Leicester City enjoyed, not once did Brendan Rodgers’s side look likely to threaten Mourinho’s defensive-minded Spurs. Instead, the visitors received a clinic in finishing from a rejuvenated Harry Kane, whose performance in this match […]
It was all lining up to be a vintage Atlético Madrid performance. Simeone’s side had scored in the first half and confidently took place in their characteristic defensive block. The collective frustration of so many previously exasperated managers painted across the face of Imanol Alguacil, as his side tried fruitlessly to salvage a point. That […]
A tactical matchup that didn’t offer much entertainment showed both sides’ meticulous preparation; both of the systems were successfully and heavily adjusted, with especially Brozović in an unprecedented and pivotal role for the visitors. In the end, Inter proved once again unable to protect their lead as Roma was deprived of the win after an […]
A repeat of the 2018 final did not disappoint. Chelsea’s versatile 3-4-3 system gave Frank Lampard’s team superiority down the channels, both on and off the ball. Manchester United did not get a sniff, as Chelsea confirmed their place in this year’s FA Cup final. Tactical analysis and match report by Joel Parker. Though these […]
Despite the minimal chances separating the two sides, Sevilla controlled the match from start to finish. Their inventiveness, fluidity and intensity in both their possession play and their pressing stifled the visitors, who only offered a glimpse of high-intensity attacking plays right at the end of proceedings. Tactical analysis and match report by Peter Munnelly. After […]
Atalanta’s momentum is finally halted; Hellas Verona provided the solution to Serie A’s most troublesome side with a 3-4-2-1 shape to match their visitors. Atalanta were disrupted throughout the game and failed to build attacks consistently. On the other side, Verona made the most of their aerial advantage to spoil a truly renewed title race. […]
A wonderful sequence of buildup play put Arsenal 1-0 up in the first half. Manchester City dominated the ball, but were unable to break down Arsenal’s deep defense, despite Pep Guardiola’s tactical adjustments. Mikel Arteta’s side added a second goal with twenty minutes left, making City’s task almost insurmountable, and Arsenal eventually closed the game […]
Relegation six-pointers are always matches of high emotion and drama. A rattling experience for fans of either side, a delight for the neutrals. Two early West Ham goals could have provoked a meltdown in the Watford defense, but Nigel Pearson’s team would control later phases and build momentum to encourage a fightback into the game. […]
A contest that evened itself out in the end was very much a game of two halves. Getafe showed their intent to strengthen their Europa League push, but were trumped in the second period as their defensive structure tired. Atleti’s grip on proceedings soon became unrelenting despite the approaching play in the same way they […]