A hattrick from Bruno Fernandes takes the headlines, but United’s overall performance was also impressive here. Energetic pressing helped Amorim’s side gain the initiative. In possession United’s off-the-ball movement exploited width and depth to stretch the Sociedad defense and ultimately secure the victory they desperately needed. Tactical analysis and match report by Josh Manley. Last week’s […]
The proposition of 18 simultaneous fixtures on a final European matchday is bound to bring some jeopardy. AS Roma, rocked with a raft of dismissals, required a big performance to stay in the Europa League. The ultras received what they wanted. Even though the game was not spectacular, they— and their guests— could be content […]
In the opening round of the Europa League, Manchester United showed the exact same structural problems that have been around for a long time. Lacking control, United allowed a brave and well-structured FC Twente a way back into the match, and ultimately paid the price. Tactical analysis and match report by Sander IJtsma. We decided […]
To end a run of three cup final defeats under Gian Piero Gasperini, Atalanta Bergamo needed to end Xabi Alonso’s winning machine for European glory. With an intense off-ball plan they made Bayer Leverkusen look unrecognizable, and Ademola Lookman was there to reap the rewards on a historic night in Dublin. Tactical analysis and match […]
No one can rush the divinities. Their ways are higher than humanity’s. The goddess has blessed a blue and black collective in the north of Italy with greater gifts during the past. However, this might finally turn out to be the year when her smile signals silverware the way of their cabinet. Tactical analysis and […]
Bayer Leverkusen had a two goal cushion coming into the second leg, but they found themselves pegged back despite dominating proceedings, as AS Roma scored twice. Daniele De Rossi did implement some effective changes to aid that, but by now, it seems inevitable what Leverkusen will do after conceding. Two goals in the final ten […]
Bayer Leverkusen just seem unstoppable at the moment. Facing one of Italy’s most in-form teams in a European semi-final was no easy feat, yet Leverkusen displayed remarkable control and poise (once again). Xabi Alonso’s tactical adjustments also proved pivotal, leaving Roma struggling to find solutions. While there’s still another leg to play, it was evident […]
Bayer Leverkusen dominated this game from the start with their fluid possession game in a 3-4-3 system against West Ham’s low-block defending, as well as aggressive counterpressing. They experienced a slight lull in the second half, but Xabi Alonso’s substitutions eventually helped them to a 2-0 victory. Tactical analysis and match report by Josh Manley. Runaway […]
The Anfield din has been the undoing of many enemies. Last night, the stadium had greeted a strange survival strategy. Its latest test was an offensive that dared to suffocate and strangle the Reds before the arrival of any attack. It worked down to a tee, leaving Liverpool lost for words. Tactical analysis and match […]
The Seagulls flew to Rome with dreams of a memorable night at the Stadio Olimpico, but their performance will be remembered for all the wrong reasons. Brighton & Hove Albion were flattened by a resurgent Roma, who effectively put the tie to bed in the first leg. Tactical analysis and match report by Neel Shelat. […]