The last game of France in the international break saw Zidane’s side struggle to unlock the sternest Belgian low block. Van Bommel’s side exploited France’s central and behind-the-backline gaps to open the score and exacerbate the situation for the French national team. After substitutions, Zidane’s side kicked into full gear to turn the game into […]
Two old rivals would meet at the start of new eras. Mark Van Bommel’s Belgium would play host to Zinédine Zidane’s France. Like in their playing careers, where they briefly met during their respective times at Barcelona and Real Madrid, there was a clear clash of styles on display: the speed and directness of Belgium […]
As Mika Godts broke through on his inauguration to the Belgian national team, Roberto Mancini cut a lonely figure as Italy looks a long way from breaking out of their troubles. Tactical analysis and match report by Joel Parker. Humiliation in Bosnia saw an inquest like no other. Gattuso axed, Pep discussed, Maldini the technical […]
Basel progressed to the next round of Champions League qualification after a game of opposites and similarities. Manager Mark van Bommel was not able to solve PSV Eindhoven’s overarching problems, and they eventually fell short to a team that played their cards well, despite never looking completely in control. Tactical analysis and match report by […]
PSV successfully implemented a game plan with aggressive pressing and direct play towards their commanding striker Luuk de Jong, preventing Barcelona from controlling the game. This forced the Spanish champion into an uncomfortable high-tempo game, which exposed their problems when transitioning from attack to defense. However, trading punches against Lionel Messi often ends up badly… […]