Barcelona once again struggled with threatening from width and depth in possession, meanwhile Madrid’s possession game was very loosely structured. Both teams were also relatively disorganized in pressing. These aspects made for a relatively chaotic and tactically low-standard game, especially in the second half, where Madrid eventually came out on top through goals from Vinícius […]
A conservative City was easily neutralized by a solid Real Madrid team in an encounter that saw both sides spar out until the home side’s fortunate goal triggered Guardiola’s reaction. With all guns out, Real Madrid were no match for City, slowly crumbling as the visitors rose to the top of the Bernabéu. Tactical analysis […]
Club football has entered its decisive phase, with lots to play for in every competition. With just two games left to play in the first knockout round, let’s focus on Wednesday’s ties of the most important tournament in club football: the Champions League. Article by Sander IJtsma, José Pérez, K.T. Stockwell and Kareem Bianchi. Real Madrid […]
In keeping with the intensely-fought stalemates of recent history, it was refreshing to see an emphasis on opposition-specific tactics rewarded with a deadlock-breaker. Were it not for half-time changes two very interesting attacking setups may well have continued to frustrate themselves rather than their opponent. Tactical analysis and match report by Peter Munnelly. Since the […]
Sevilla’s 4-5-1 defensive system created problems for Real Madrid’s attacking play. However, once Casemiro moved into a more advanced role, the hosts were able to create some opportunities that were good enough. The Brazilian’s brace rewarded Real Madrid with three valuable points, as their unbeaten record continues. Tactical analysis and match report by Joel Parker. […]
Real Madrid needed penalty kicks to decide a close game where both teams could not break down the opponent. In the first half, Atlético’s pressing game dominated, yet Real’s defense did not allow them to turn that control into shots. In the second half, substitutions caused the game to be played at a faster pace, […]
Real started the game in dominant fashion and went ahead through a directly scored corner kick from Toni Kroos. Apart from a ten-minute period in the middle of the first half, Valencia barely set a foot into the opposing half. This tempted manager Albert Celades to switch the formation, which resulted in a more open, […]
While the 3-0 scoreline suggests a routine win for Real Madrid on the surface, the reality was that Zinedine Zidane’s side had to battle for their win. Getafe’s pressing made it hard for Madrid to build up cleanly and their directness in attack forced Madrid back and created an abrasive, fragmented game. Madrid required saves […]
During the first half, Real Madrid’s pressing game suppressed Barcelona’s offense, except for the unruly Messi and Sergi Roberto. Real had a hard time however to create good chances despite their tactical dominance. In the second half, Ernesto Valverde evened out the tactical tables with his adjustments, creating a come-and-go in which both teams ultimately […]
Just a week before Christmas, LaLiga gives us the gift of a Clásico. What are the game plans of both teams? What wingers should Zidane use to best compensate for the absence of Eden Hazard? What will be the key individual duels in the game? In this preview, we’ll try to answer these questions and […]