RasenBallsport Leipzig – Borussia Mönchengladbach: Leipzig Sink Glacial Gladbach (3-2)

Marco Rose’s side took the early lead before adding to it soon after; however, it was not enough to overcome a Leipzig side who were superior in almost every department. The scoreline aside, the game between two of the Bundesliga’s finest tactical minds produced a number of interesting battles, with Julian Nagelsmann emerging the victor in the face of Rose’s uncharacteristic conservatism.

Tactical analysis and match report by Manasvin Andra. 

With Leipzig and Borussia Mönchengladbach both suffering defeat in their European encounters, thoughts returned to the Bundesliga where the title race and tussle for top four positions remains open. The previous encounter between the two sides featured a bizarre game plan on Julian Nagelsmann’s part, which Marco Rose’s team exploited to great effect. However, such a change was unlikely this time around, given Leipzig’s stability with respect to their principles and flexible formations.

Nagelsmann eschewed the strikerless formation he has used in recent times by fielding Yussuf Poulsen in attack, who was supported by Dani Olmo and wingers Christopher Nkunku and Justin Kluivert. With Kevin Kampl dropping to the bench, Marcel Sabitzer and Tyler Adams formed the central midfield duo. As usual, Péter Gulácsi took his place in goal . . .