Two sides amid transformative phases locked horns here. Germany had no buildup answers to the Spanish man-marking press thus their attacking threat vanished as soon as their direct play was stifled. In contrast, Spain got behind the German midfield line constantly with Álvaro Morata being vital between the lines. A hattrick from the dynamic Ferran […]
With the teams lining up in systems which saw them matched up man for man when pressing, much of the first half revolved around who could get the upper hand against the man-marking of the opponent. Spain grew into the game well in this respect but were punished by Germany for not capitalising as Timo […]
Once Sweden settled into a comfortable shape, Spain struggled to break the hosts down. Predictability in attack, coupled with lingering issues in defensive transition, plagued Spain throughout the evening, as the visitors were lucky to escape with a point against a resolute Swedish side. Tactical analysis and match report by K.T. Stockwell. Heading into Tuesday […]
After being played off the pitch in the first half, Norway found more success after the break, using a man-oriented high press. Since Spain were ineffective in front of the goal the whole match, Norway were close to stealing some undeserved points, something Spain have only themselves to blame for. Tactical analysis and match report […]
Zlatko Dalić’s flat 4-5-1-0 shape perfectly managed to frustrate Spain’s 4-3-3 formation. The match changed when the visitors transitioned into a back-three, as Luis Enrique’s tweaks helped Spain to create numerous big chances. They might well have taken all three points, if it weren’t for a dramatic late winner by Croatia. Tactical analysis and match […]
England’s forwards put Spain’s defense to the sword in the first half, giving England a three-goal lead. After the break, England stood strong against Spain’s attack for the most part, although they may have been slightly fortunate to hold their lead. Luis Enrique could barely have hoped for a better start as Spain manager. He […]