Defeated World Cup finalists France were back in action were in action for the first time since that fateful night in Lusail, as they kicked off their Euro 2024 qualification campaign. They faced the Netherlands, for whom Ronald Koeman was back in the dugout for a second stint. It did not prove to be a […]
Though Sergio Agüero grabbed his first goal for Barcelona in the dying moments of the match, it would not prove to be enough to get Barcelona the win, as goals from David Alaba and Lucas Vázquez and a staunch Real Madrid defense earned Carlo Ancelotti’s side the three points in El Clásico. Tactical analysis and […]
Though Valencia took the lead early through a Jose Gayá wonder-strike, it was Barcelona’s Ansu Fati and Memphis Depay who stole the show as the two each grabbed a goal as Barcelona completed the comeback over José Bordalás’ side. Tactical analysis and match report by Charlie Tuley. Ronald Koeman’s Barcelona came into the match against […]
Whilst Barcelona may have dominated possession throughout the match, they struggled to create meaningful chances or even test Atlético Madrid goalkeeper Jan Oblak. Their offense was one-dimensional, making it very easy for Diego Simeone’s men to shut them down in the final third and then capitalize through counterattacks. Tactical analysis and match report by Charlie […]
At times in the first half, it looked like Bayern were intentionally keeping the game slow as they waited for Barcelona to react. Instead, they found an opponent uninterested in attacking and ineffective in defending, as Ronald Koeman’s side crumbled in view of the manager’s misguided conservatism. Tactical analysis and match report by Manasvin Andra. […]
A confident first step on the path to life after Lionel Messi gave Barcelona hope of quickly finding their feet in his absence. But Athletic Club refused to bow to the Catalans without a fight. Stifling the away team with their 4-4-2 diamond high pressing scheme, they emerged the better of the two outfits in […]
How do you replace a talisman at such short notice? This question has stumped many, but Ronald Koeman took one small step to surmounting the loss of the greatest of them all. As the collective took on the work of the individual, Barcelona put on a display to suggest there can be life after Lionel […]
On a seminal matchday for the title race, first place duked it out with third for residence at the summit of the table. Barcelona’s 3-4-2-1 shape looked to take the game to Atlético’s 5-4-1 block but carried too little punch, leading to a result that throws up more questions than answers. Tactical analysis and match […]
Failing to seize the initiative in mid-week, Barcelona came into this game looking to get back to winning ways. A lack of final third incision in the first half and a well-worked set-piece in the second put the team on course to drop points again. But the star names showed their worth once more, coming […]
Barcelona came into this game looking to punish their rivals for dropping points the night before. But the contest was far from plain sailing. Facing a high 4-4-2 press from the home team, their issues in the buildup phase and a shock setback set the tone for a tight duel where a superstar had to […]