Barcelona’s poor mid-pitch press combined with Valencia’s ruthlessness gave Marcelino’s side an early lead. Barcelona’s lack of attacking output allowed them to keep it. A late glimmer of hope from Messi was ultimately quashed as Barcelona stumbled out of another trophy. Tactical analysis and match report by Tom Quartly. The Benito Villamarín was the elected […]
Two errors in buildup by Real Valladolid unblocked the way for Valencia, who started patiently and got rewarded even before having to switch gears or take more risks. With a comfortable lead, there was only one way this game could end and oddly enough, both teams celebrated after the final whistle. Tactical analysis and match […]
The Wanda Metropolitano in a celebratory mood saw Atlético de Madrid dominate a conservative but inefficient Sevilla side. By the hour mark, the hosts probably deserved to have the game won, but a surprise equalizer and a key tactical change by Joaquín Caparrós almost gave Sevilla FC a much needed win. Tactical analysis and match […]
LaLiga winners Barcelona relied on individual performances and were forced to adapt their approach along the way. Getafe had great chances to score, but failed to capitalize a below-par Barca, as they lose hold of their fourth spot in the table. Tactical analysis and match report by Joel Parker. With the league wrapped up […]
Valencia’s Champions League hopes continue to wane as a confident Eibar side dominated the game. Valencia started out in a surprisingly passive setup, and failed to turn the tide against Eibar who played like they always do, pressing high. Eibar secured a deserved win with a late goal and played themselves safe for another year […]
Diego Simeone’s excellent use of the wings allowed Atlético Madrid a strong start, but a lulling deep block let Valencia back in it. The second half was more of a boxing match, with each side trading blows until a magnificent strike nine minutes from time sealed the game. Tactical analysis and match report by Tom […]
Quique Setién was full of changes in this fixture, fielding three different formations across the match. Even though it was not enough to secure any points, the performance of his team was respectable enough to have deserved at least something from another intriguing clash between Setién and Marcelino’s sides. Tactical analysis and match report by […]
In a spectacular Seville derby, Sevilla proved to be more ruthless and efficient than their crosstown rivals. In the first half, Sevilla dominated after reorganizing their midfield structure in the initial fifteen minutes. Betis responded in the second half, but Sevilla effectively punished this increased aggression and successfully defended their lead. Tactical analysis and match […]
In the key game to decide LaLiga’s title race, Barcelona ultimately defeated Atlético. In the first half hour, this was an even match, with a surprisingly proactive Atlético, until Diego Costa was sent off. After the 30th minute, Atlético retreated into a deep block and focused on counterattacks. Only the ever-decisive Suárez and Messi were […]
Valencia broke a long lull in play with a Guedes goal, creating a glut of transition opportunities that Madrid survived until the end of the first half. The Valencian onslaught continued after the restart and Madrid countered with a repetitive crossing approach that failed to pay off. Garay secured the three points late in the […]