Two of the teams that have turned heads away from Europe in the Club World Cup clashed in the first fixture of the knockout stages. But perhaps familiarity bred contempt: the two camps cancelled each other out for most of a match that was tight and tense but seldom a spectacle. Tactical analysis and match […]

Chelsea turned on the afterburners in the second half of extra time to score three goals to beat Benfica & qualify for the quarter-finals of the Club World Cup. A second half free-kick from Reece James gave the Blues the lead but Angel Di Maria equalised from the penalty spot for Benfica after the game […]

Bringing back his days with Bayer Leverkusen, Xabi Alonso set his team up similarly to what he was used to in the Bundesliga. Central progression and neat counterattacks nipped the game in the bud, allowing Real Madrid to top the group, securing a classic clash with the Old Lady, Juventus in the round of sixteen. […]

Before his first game as Internazionale coach, Cristian Chivu talked about maintaining the principles, whilst improving and adding to them. Three games in and we can notice these tweaks, but will this better the Italian giants in time? Tactical analysis and match report by Joel Parker. Level on four points, Inter and River Plate went […]

Manchester City are looking to rebuild after last season’s disappointment, and they gave a strong tactical showing here. Their more dynamic and fluid 4-3-3 system ripped through Juventus’ defense, as City dominated possession throughout the game. A narrower front three and attacking fullbacks were key features, while Rodri made a welcome return in midfield. Tactical […]

Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida – The FIFA Club World Cup Group F delivered a tense and ultimately barren affair as Mamelodi Sundowns and Fluminense played out a hard-fought goalless draw at Hard Rock Stadium. In stark contrast to Sundowns’ previous seven-goal thriller, this encounter was a masterclass in defensive resilience and a gritty […]

In the penultimate group stage match that was set to decide the table topper, Benfica took the lead against the odds. Bayern Munich were flat in the first half, but despite a rejuvenated performance in the second, there were plenty of opportunities to equalize. However, the frontline misfired and had to settle for the runner-up […]

Atlético Madrid overcame Botafogo, but it was the Brazilians who made it through to the next round. The Madrid side’s persistence, high press and midfield overloads might have yielded a bigger win on another day. However, the Rio de Janeiro team defended combatively in a medium-low block and gave Atlético plenty to worry about through […]

Group B of the Club World Cup was decided by Luis Enrique’s side climbing to the top spot. A victory to regain momentum, and a dignified defeat for the home team. Tactical analysis and match report by Juan Lauz. Paris Saint-Germain were looking to secure first place in Group B of the Club World Cup. After […]

The FIFA Club World Cup Group F erupted in a goals galore as Borussia Dortmund edged out a spirited Mamelodi Sundowns side 4-3 at TQL Stadium. In a stark contrast to their opening goalless draw, Dortmund showcased their attacking prowess, albeit with defensive vulnerabilities. Mamelodi Sundowns, not to be outdone, proved their mettle by pushing […]