In a crisis, a leader has two primary options: unearth a unique answer, or go back to familiar ideas. Thomas Tuchel has delved deep into both choices, but at home to an outfit wallowing through their own campaign, the return of a back three was the gateway to a routine victory. Tactical analysis and match […]

In their first UEFA Champions League knockout round appearance for well over a decade, Villarreal hosted Juventus, who have repeatedly disappointed in the competition of late. Both sides would have given themselves a decent chance to progress to the quarterfinals, but after the 1-1 draw in the first leg, Villarreal must feel that they have […]

In a clash that intrigued on paper, Atalanta’s current woes were on full display as Fiorentina were not made to feel uncomfortable at all. The home side were able to toil away with their more direct attacking approach until Atalanta finally caved. A lack of final-third entries, and a stifled flank buildup, hurt Atalanta’s usual […]

Though Barcelona managed to put four goals past José Bordalás’ Valencia side, they very easily could have conceded just as many to the hosts. Xavi has his midfield and attack firing on all cylinders, but his transition defense is still quite lacking, and this win largely depended on penalty area heroics from his center-backs and […]