Coming into this game as underdogs, Poland hoped to be a stubborn outfit for their guests to crack once more. But even they ended up getting more out of this duel than they had bargained for. Organizing themselves in a familiar 5-3-2 defensive shape, they secured a result that could make all the difference on […]
After a goalless draw with Sweden, Spain hoped to find the last piece to the jigsaw puzzle against Poland. But the guests had several tricks to call on, and Spain’s finishing worries persisted. Both teams ended up battling to a result that only heightens the stakes of the final round of group games. Tactical analysis […]
Taking an early lead, England hoped to put an understrength Poland to bed. But the guests battled hard in their 5-3-2 shape and took their chances when they came to force a late winner and a narrow result out of their hosts. Tactical analysis and match report by Emmanuel Adeyemi-Abere. Amid all the baggage that […]
Lyon manager Rudi Garcia adopted a traditional 4-3-3 system – electing to field his three most technical midfielders. The outcome completely overwhelmed Pablo Sousa and Bordeaux, who struggled to establish their buildup play and negotiate a more athletic OL press. Tactical analysis and match report by K.T. Stockwell. Significant injuries to Memphis Depay and Jeff […]
The first half of this match was characterized by stale possession play from both sides, with Marseille looking slightly more incisive thanks to the Dimitri Payet – Jordan Amavi connection. Things changed significantly after the break, when Marseille implemented a renewed high press that choked Bordeaux’s buildup and directly contributed to the winning goal. Tactical […]
For all that was at stake for the home side, their performance was very disappointing. Bordeaux’s fluid, yet structured, possession-based approach trumped Caen’s midfield and facilitated for complete control, relegating Caen to Ligue 2 in the process. Tactical analysis and match report by Peter M. With their safety already assured, the Bordeaux players could be […]
What, in all truths, felt like a smooth Bordeaux win was actually a much closer-fought contest. Bordeaux’s persistence with their direct and effective long-ball strategy paid dividends as the inside forwards were given a lot to work with. The same could not be said for Marseille, despite some moments of encouragement, particularly from Florian Thauvin. […]