Real Betis were able to take the lead early on at the Nou Camp in one of their few attacks throughout the game. Barcelona initially found it tough to break down a compact Betis side, who defended increasingly deep once they were ahead. Eventually Barcelona found a way through with two Antoine Griezmann goals either […]
During the first half, Athletic’s defensive scheme easily stopped Barcelona’s rigid and disjointed possession game, reducing them to only two shots. In the second half, Rakitić’s entrance and the shift to a 4-2-3-1 formation improved Barcelona’s buildup, which allowed them to control the game. As the match looked set for a well-deserved draw, however, Aduriz […]
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 […]
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 […]
The seemingly impossible became reality. Jürgen Klopp’s immaculate tactical tweaks got Liverpool off to a great start and Liverpool managed to survive a handful of Barcelona chances. In the end, Liverpool completed one of the great Champions League comebacks, the final goal coming from an unforgettable moment of guile. Tactical analysis and match report by […]
Lionel Messi’s brilliance left Liverpool with a mountain to climb as Barcelona is taking a massive 3-0 lead to Anfield. Contrary to many expectations, Jürgen Klopp chose to take the game to Barcelona and it was pretty much an even contest until late stages, but Liverpool squandered plenty of good opportunities and lacked clinical edge, […]
Despite very brief hope for Manchester United with a promising first five minutes, Barcelona would go on to completely dominate this second leg. Two first half goals from Lionel Messi gave Barcelona a comfortable cushion, and they went on to give a lesson in controlling a game with possession. Tactical analysis and match report by […]
In some ways, this was a game of three parts. Barcelona took an early lead, and looked like suffocating United with their stability in possession. United gained momentum either side of halftime though, making Barcelona look nervous against the high press. Barcelona then managed to slow the game down again in the final stages to […]
Whereas yesterday went down as an almost exclusively English night, this evening is reserved for Europe’s classic football giants. Ajax, Juventus, Manchester United and FC Barcelona are all clubs with a gigantic reputation, meaning both of these encounters have significant backstory and intrigue in them, in addition to tactical questions posed. Written by Erik Elias, […]
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 […]