In many respects the two clubs matched formations and systems, but it was a pair of deft substitutions at the start of the second half that made all the difference for Monaco, as manager Niko Kovač celebrated a fantastic three-goal comeback over Ligue 1’s top side.  Tactical analysis and match report by K.T. Stockwell.  Throughout […]

Two sides amid transformative phases locked horns here. Germany had no buildup answers to the Spanish man-marking press thus their attacking threat vanished as soon as their direct play was stifled. In contrast, Spain got behind the German midfield line constantly with Álvaro Morata being vital between the lines. A hattrick from the dynamic Ferran […]

England’s matchup against Belgium was a critical one if the away team were to stand a chance of finishing first in a three-horse race for the top spot. However, Belgium managed to race into a commanding position, against the run of play, before holding onto the lead in their 5-4-1 shape. Tactical analysis by Emmanuel […]

The rematch of the 2016 European Championship final saw the same scoreline but in the other direction, as France rolled to victory on the back of a fluid and composed performance. N’Golo Kanté’s 53rd minute strike proved the difference in a game when both teams had chances, although France were the better side – both […]

Three quick substitutions in the second half changed the complexion of the match and helped Lyon recapture victory over their most bitter rival. The introduction of Tino Kadewere on left wing was especially impactful, as the Lyonnais forward helped shore up his club’s defensive transitions and created a decided mismatch going forward.  Tactical analysis and […]

After the first twenty-five minutes, it seemed as if Real Madrid would saunter to another three points. But some dubious defending in their 4-4-2 shape and similarly controversial officiating resulted in a remarkable goalscoring feat from the spot and a resounding final score. Tactical analysis and match report by Emmanuel Adeyemi-Abere. Valencia entered the new season […]

Atalanta and Inter came out in their usual setups and thus matched up in structures with three at the back. And although both sides managed to get into their normal patterns of play, their opponents handled much of their forays forward effectively. The game went by with little goalscoring opportunities. Neither team could separate themselves, […]

In a game of hectic attacks, organized transitions and questionable defending, Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Mönchengladbach provided vintage Bundesliga action. Although the hosts outplayed their North-Rhine counterparts, it was Gladbach that would be made to rue missed opportunities, created on the counterattack.  Tactical analysis and match report by Joel Parker. Back in May, both Leverkusen and […]

A Liverpool side focused on pressing and transitions ensured that the game had a fast-paced start, which resulted in an early lead for the visitors through a Mohamed Salah penalty. City tweaked their shape slightly and eventually hit back through Gabriel Jesus. As the game progressed, the chances dried up as both sides looked to […]

Juve’s pressing issues forced them into a game of counter football, which was not in accordance with their starting intentions. Eventually, as Pirlo’s men fell back into their own box, missing chances whenever they had the opportunity to score a second, Lazio’s character re-surfaced in injury time, finding a key equalizer through Caicedo. Tactical analysis […]