-------------------- De Gea ----------------------
------- Pavard --- Skriniar --- Chiellini -------
Hakimi ---- Torreira --- Pjanic --- Hernandez
-------------------- H.Ziyech --------------------
------------- Haaland --- Lacazette -----------
Subs:
Muric, Hummels, McKennie, D.Silva, Mahrez, Bailey, Reus
We set up with a strong side suited to playing counter attacking football in a 3-4-1-2 formation. We expect the opposition to look to dominate possession which will suit our strengths perfectly. When they’re in possession our wingers drop in as we revert to a 5-3-2 formation, as soon as we win back possession we look to break at speed with our devastating front 3 and hit them on the counter.
Skriniar is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, all three centre backs will stay back ensuring we are always prepared with a strong back 3 if we lose possession to stop counter attacks, The CB’s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball to the front 2 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.
For the full backs today the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly and launching an attack of our own.
Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who they go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their experience and high technical ability, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 2 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 2 flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back. Ziyech will look to dictate the play and always looking for that killer ball into our forwards.
We play we a front two blessed with pace and goals. Our team will sit deep to neutralise the threat of the opposition getting in behind. This naturally means that the opposition will push higher up the field which will leave ample space for us to get in behind. We look to get in behind at all opportunities. Get the ball out wide to Hakimi or Theo to break at speed or Ziyech to go through the middle as we look to supply our lethal finishers up top.
Lacazette will be our link up man, playing alongside Haaland will cause their CB’s all sorts of problems as he looks to drift between the lines. If the focus is on our other CF this will free up Lacazette who’s deadly if given space to shoot. Haaland will look to play on the shoulder of the last man, look to use his physic to get in behind and his ice cold finishing should he get played through on goal. He’ll be surrounded with creativity all around him so if the opposition drop off we look to push our fullbacks forward with both having great delivery for our front two to attack. We play a fast counter attacking brand of football and look to go for goals.
Subs;
If winning:
65 mins: Ziyech off, McKennie on.
75 mins: Lacazette off, Reus on. Pace to finish them off on the counter.
If drawing:
60 mins: Pjanic off, D.Silva on.
70 mins: Lacazette and Ziyech off, Mahrez and Reus on. Switch to 3-4-3 as we get at them and go for the winner.
If losing:
70 mins: Pjanic and Chiellini off, D.Silva and Mahrez on. Attacking 4-2-2-2 as we go for goals.
-------------------------- Oblak ---------------------------
Bissaka ------ van Dijk ------ Zagadou ------ Lucas.H
-------------- F. de Jong ----- F.Valverde ---------------
Mbappe --------------- Zaniolo ---------------- Neymar
------------------------ T.Werner -------------------------
Lafont, Tonali, Bellingham, Ferran, Martial, Dembele, Greenwood
Our game is based solely on possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with Valverde and de Jong ahead of them just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and our midfield will be in and around the half way line, Zaniolo slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow us to dictate play, defend from the front, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.
van Dijk picks up the CF not much gets passed him, Zagadou spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, both must attack high balls to get the ball away from the opposition big men. Fullbacks keep the wingers quiet, stop their attacks Keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. When they attack, only one at a time, they drive down the line in support of the wingers drive on the outside making an extra man. If either get caught up field I want Valverde & de Jong to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. van Dijk and Zagadou to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and de Jong sitting back.
de Jong our deepest midfielder sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. Valverde will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defence as best as possible, in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Zaniolo as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Zaniolo is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in an advanced No.10 role and look for the de jong/Valverde/CB pass. He will drop back at times to pick it up and will look to his dribbling capabilities to get him around players, sometimes taking a foul as he is a tricky player to mark. When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart and create space for the front 3. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.
Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders our defenders are superb long ball passers, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Neymar will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Zaniolo to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Martial who can beat any defender with power and pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Werner who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Neymar (when going for goal) otherwise de Jong
Corners - Wingers
Subs -
Losing -
65 Mins - Ferran for Zaniolo, Greenwood for Werner, 4-4-2 with Mbappe and Greenwood up top, Ferran to the right
75 Mins - Martial for Bissaka, 3-4-3, Martial to the left of the front 3
Winning -
75 Mins - Tonali for Zaniolo, he goes in between def and mid and look to control the game
80 Mins - Greenwood for Werner, Bellingham for Valverde
Drawing -
70 Mins - Ferran for Zaniolo, Bellingham for Valverde 442 Ferran to RW, Mbappe up top
80 Mins - Greenwood for Werner
--------------------- Ter Stegen ---------------------
Mukiele ----- Rudiger ----- Kamara ----- Wijndal
----------------- Partey ---- Tousart -----------------
F.Chiesa ------------------------------------- Sterling
----------------- H.Kane -- J.David ------------------
Pope, Akanji, Rice, Alli, Malen, Felix, M.Camara
Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team with two banks of four with David & Kane harassing their backline and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially Partey, Tousart & and the front four further up the pitch as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards.
Mukiele and Wjndfal have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, one will stay back creating a back 3 when we attack, bomb down the line supporting the wingers on the outside, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support the forwards. They look to play one twos with the midfield which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Rudiger will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Kamara alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, both powerful defenders, Both will dominate in the air and both good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Both cbs up for corners, fullbacks stay back and a midfielder just sitting in front of them. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both CBs are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..
Partey's primary role in front of the defence is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defence where the opposition’s number 10 will likely to be operating whilst also being aware when the full-backs had pushed forward.Take care of of the No 10/SS is also a main focus, he isn't an out an out DM but he has a lot of grit and determination to his game so stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him.
Tousart and has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for team mates, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running they are expected to do and he does a lot. The box-to-box midfielder is more likely to be found on the side of the pitch where the full-back that is less efficient in the attacking third plays to provide balance on both flanks, he also has a mean shot from distance and isn't afraid to have a pop.
Wingers are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area, I want them to drive on the outside and play as a natural winger not an inside forward unless supported by fullbacks. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos. Use the midfield to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using David and Kane to get into danger areas. Both wingers have fantastic forwards to aim for in Kane & David so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack. We go with a front two today, we need goals these two will get plenty chances, however they must put away. I want them to bully the slower/weaker of the two/three. Get into positions that they can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower/weaker of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. They can score from various angles/ranges even dropping back and from distance, with hopefully a few crosses coming in they can get up and above defenders for. Can both hold it up and look for runners, in particular Sterling and Chiesa will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side for each other if they cant go themselves. When we defend I want one dropping back to take care of the DM and make an extra man in there so we are not over powered in the middle.
We must defend as a team tho, 4-4-1-1 from the front, everyone hot on the tails of the opposition, we cant give away cheap goals,so wingers track back and cover the fullbacks, even just to stop them supporting the wingers, we must drive into them and pressurize them into mistakes
Captain - Partey
Pens - Kane
Frre Kicks - J.David
Corners - Wingers
Losing -
65 Mins - D.Malen for Wijndal we go 3-4-3
Winning
70 Mins - D.Rice for David, into DM 451
80 Mins - Malen for Kane
Drawing
65 Mins - Malen for David
75 Mins - Felix for Wijndal 3412
Arsenal v NORWICH CITY
Ramsdale
Vrsaljko, Caleta-Car, Ajer, Digne
Gueye, Koopmeiners
Brooks, Fornals, Saint-Maximin
Suárez
Subs: Woodman, Tanganga, Lewis, Nández, Bowen, Cantwell, Vlahovic
Free Kicks & Pens – Koopmeiners
Our defensive unit consists of Duje Caleta-Car and Kristoffer Ajer paired up at centre-back, Sime Vrsaljko at right-back and Lucas Digne at left-back, with Teun Koopmeiners and Idrissa Gueye as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Koopmeiners and Gueye we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Gueye can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Koopmeiners can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Gueye's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Gueye running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Teun Koopmeiners.
Koopmeiners is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Koopmeiners such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of David Brooks, Pablo Fornals and Allan Saint-Maximin as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Koopmeiners or Gueye, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Vrsaljko and Digne can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Koopmeiners and Gueye can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both David Brooks and Saint-Maximin, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Pablo Fornals our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Fornals is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer with his one-touch passing and quick flicks, and who will combine exceptionally well with Brooks, Saint-Maximin & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.
Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Brooks, Fornals & Saint-Maximin to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.
Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suarez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.
All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.
Subs on 75 mins
Bowen on for Brooks and Cantwell on for Saint-Maximin
Double substitution - Lots of energy and pace in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line
Attacking high press 3-5-2
We go with an attacking side, that will press the opposition in high areas of the park, this will be important to ensuring our dominance on the game. We want to get at the Pompey defence so we stick with our usual formation with two strikers. Our side is firstly solid at the back but more importantly gives us a team to go and take the game to Pompey. We go with a side with a high work rate, full of energy to press from the front. The defence starts with the front two and Bernardo behind with their all action styles.
The team is setup with 3 cbs comfortable on the ball, 3 central midfield players who love to control possession, wing backs providing width and two strikers. We play to control the game, starting with the back 3 in attack and the forwards in defence.
We look to overload the Pompey defence with our attacking players. With a high tempo team we look to push them back. Keep them locked in their own half. With our quality and numbers; two strikers, and a midfield 5, we can dominate midfield. The front two will be crucial in creating gaps in their defence, with two forwards occupying their cbs, this will create space for Bernardo in AM to get forward, and also for the wingers when they get around the box.
A dangerous front 5 full of pace, we aim to get at the Pompey goal. When we lose the ball, we use the pace and all action styles to win it back quickly. Don't let them get out. Leave them tired chasing our speedy attackers, and more importantly chasing the ball. Win it back before they can counter or shut them down so we can get back. If they go long our back 3 will dominate with their strength.
Our formation gives us a solid base, with three strong defenders tasked with remaining strong at the back, and in front two cms who offer a great mix of tenacity and tactical awareness. The 3 cbs have a great mix of pace and power.
This set up means we will be more direct, the back three are all excellent in possession and in Neves and Arthur in front they have players comfortable coming deep and taking the ball from the defence. From here we will vary our play. An important variation to our play will also be the long ball, and Bastoni, Marquinhos, Arthur and Neves all have strong long passing ability to mix it up.
The front two set the tempo for the game with their all action styles. Both have the ability to drop deep and join in the attacks. Bernardo the AM, similarly plays with high intensity. We have three cms able to pick a pass, and with the ability to dictate the tempo of the game and control possession.
We defend in a narrow formation, limiting the space for Pompey to play in. As the opposition push higher up the park one wing back will drop back to full back on the opposite side of play. On the side of play the wing back defends with the wide cb in the fb position behind him.
The defence and midfield press as a unit, ensuring there is no space between the lines for Pompey attacking mids. When defending, Neves plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area. Bernardo will play ball side of Arthur and always press the passing lanes. One of Lautaro/Dybala looks to sit on their dm, simply take him out the game.
When we win the ball we attack at pace. The wbs look to aim their crosses for the man, no hopefully high crosses, they have to either direct them low and or cross in front of the man for the striker to dive on to. They will be deliberate in their play, get to the byline and cutting back rather than crossing where possible.
------------------- Henderson ------------------
----------------------------------------------
----- Marquinhos - Varane — Bastoni ------
------------------------------------------------
R.James ----- Neves --- Arthur -—- Alaba
------------------- Bernardo.S -------------
------------------------------------------------
------------- P.Dybala ---Lautaro -------
Subs. Schmeichel, Palacios, Rodri, Gnabry, Trincao, Jesus, Osimhen
Defence
When we lose the ball high up the park we always look to win it back straight away, don’t give Pompey a chance to counter. The closest 2/3 players press. Allowing others to get back into position behind the ball. Henderson guards against hopeful long balls over the top in his sweeper keeper role.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
When Pompey get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation set out above. Our defence have fantastic pace up against their forwards, bide their time, not diving in. In this 4-4-1-1 formation, as above.
Attack
We counter quickly when we win the ball, using the width to stretch the play and create space for Dybala and Bernardo in pockets of space centrally. When we go wide, both Dybala and Lautaro in the box getting on the end of passes or crosses. Wbs look to cross low or pass to their man, as their cbs will dominate in the air.
Subs.
If winning after 67 mins bring on Osimhen for Lautaro. Fresh pace to get at the opposition.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Trincao for Dybala. More pace. 3421 with Trincao adding more width to stretch the game against tiring legs.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Palacios for Arthur, fresh energy in Cm to see game out.
If drawing or losing after 62 mins bring on Gnabry for Bastoni. Drops to 4-2-3-1. Wbs to fb. Gnabry left, Dybala behind Lautaro, Brernardo right. Mix it up.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Jesus and Palacios for Bernardo and Arthur. All action energy to give us fresh pace in attack
PORTSMOUTH vs Leicester
------------------------------Safonov ---------------------------
Aarons---------Ramos---------Lenglet-----------F Mendy
------------------------------- Kante ------------------------------------
--------------Kovacic ---------------- Goretzka ----------------------
--------------------------------- Bruno -----------------------------------
------------------ Son ------------------- Ronaldo -----------------
Subs - Romagnoli, Guendouzi, Ndombele, Adama, Barnes, Harit, DCL
CAPTAIN - BRUNO
CK'S - BRUNO
FK'S - RONALDO
PENALTIES - RONALDO
When we don't have possession of the ball in our half I want the whole team except the strikers to get in our half and defend. Play a deep defensive line so that oppo can't use their pacy forwards to beat the offside trap. When we win possession of the ball I want the players to keep hold of possession and try and work some space. We have good ball players in the centre and they will help keep us ticking.
Defence
Safonov in net, command your box and don't do anything flashy. Lenglet and Ramos bring experience to the backline. Ramos will focus on marking the oppo striker and will look to stick close to him and to watch out for his attacking runs. Stay aggressive and not let him turn you. Lenglet will mark the other striker if the oppo is playing 2 up front or to watch out any attacking runs of their AM if they play him instead.
Full backs
Aarons + Mendy
Aarons and Mendy will look to help both in attack and defence. Make forays forward when we have the ball in the oppos side of the pitch but track back when we don't. Get some crosses into the box as Ronaldo is very good in the air. Kante will be covering for you if you are out of position
Defence Mid
N'golo Kante
Kante will be tasked with protecting the defence. A true definition of never say die attitude he will be running all game and doing what he does best and win the ball off of the oppo. Cover for our fullbacks when they overlap and are out of position. Stick close to the oppo AM/their most attacking midfielder and pressure him as soon as he gets the ball. He will not be able to handle your relentless pressing. When you have possession of the ball quickly pass it to either Ndombele/Goretzka.
Centre Mids
Goretzka + Kovacic
Kovacic will be the more defensive of the two as I want him to focus on being the link from defence to attack. Main job is to get the ball from deep and to use your pace and technical ability to open up the oppo midfield. Goretzka will play a b2b role. Make runs forward and play pass and move passes with teammates and help the attack whenever you can. Make late runs into the box to try and score.
Attack Mid
Bruno Fernandes
Bruno will be playing as the AM today. I want him to use his great dribbling ability and passing to create chances for our 2 strikers up front. Look out for the runs of our attackers and make runs into the box whenever you can. Shoot from range if you see an opportunity.
Strikers
Son + Ronaldo
I want both the strikers to use their pace and play off of the oppo shoulders and try and beat the offside trap. Be aware of lofted through balls and time your runs as best as you can. When in the box use your quickness and agility to get into good positions away from oppo defenders. Play quick one two's with each other to penetrate the oppo defence. I want Ronaldo to stay upfront and just focus on attacking, being ready for penetrating passes from his teammates. Be aware of crosses into the box and use your superhuman athletic ability to outjump the oppo defenders.
IF WINNING BY 65 MINS
Change formation to 4231. Play deep and hit the oppo on the counter.
Take off Goretzka and put on Guendouzi in DM next to Kante to give the defence even more protection. Adama on for Kovacic to play RM and Barnes on for Son to play LM.
---------------------------- Safonov ---------------------------
Aarons--------Ramos-------Lenglet--------Mendy
--------------,-Guendouzi--------Kante---------------------
Adama--------------------------------------------------Barnes
-------------------------------Bruno---------------------------------
---------------------------- Ronaldo -----------------------------
IF LOSING BY 65 MINS
Take off Kovacic and put on Harit in AM. Play close to each other and put a tonne of pressure in the oppo defence. Defend high up and try and score a goal. Swap Kante for Adama aswell.
----------------------------- Safonov ---------------------------
Aarons---------Lenglet-------Ramos--------Mendy
--------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------Goretzka ------- Bruno ----------------
------------------------------- Harit ------------------------------
------ Adama-----------Ronaldo------------Son -----------------
IF DRAWING BY 65MINS
DCL on for Son
Ndombele on for Kovacic
Harit on for Bruno
Fresh legs.
SOTON vs Pool
----------------------------------------Gunn-----------------------
Odriozola------Upamecano--------Kabak--------Chilwell
---------------------------Aouar---------Llorente--------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pulisic---------------------------------------------------------Rashford
------------------------------------Odegaard--------------------------------
-----------------------------------Richarlison-----------------------------------
Subs - Sarr, Demiral, SMS, Lo Celso, Nkunku, Kulusevski, Kean
CAPTAIN - UPAMECANO
CK'S - ØDEGAARD
FK'S - ØDEGAARD
PENALTIES - RASHFORD
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Upamecano and Kabak bring a lot of strength and pace to the defence. Upamecano will marshal the defence and Kabak will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Llorente will be covering for them when they go attacking.
Defence Mids
Llorente + Aouar
Llorente will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings but don't try any risky passes.
Aouar will look to pick the ball up from deep and use his pace and energy to dribble the ball out. Make runs forward and help our attacking players whenever you can. Play quick passes forward and use your agility to outmanoeuvre the oppo players. When not in possession of the ball I want him to sit alongside Llorente in the middle and protect the defence.
Wingers
Pulisic + Rashford
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Rashford will be looking to cut in from the left and Pulisic will be looking to get to the byline and whip in balls into the box. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of our fullbacks and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. Odriozola and Chilwell are no slouches attacking wise so use them! If you can cut in onto your stronger foot, don't be afraid to shoot from range as you both have the ability to score from long range. If there is no space to do so then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Richarlison to get his head on. Help our FB's in defensive duties if the oppo winger is trying to take them on. Track back and double up on him or mark the run of the opposition FB if they try to make an overlapping run. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack.
Attack Mid
Ødegaard
Ødegaard will be playing just behind Richarlison and will look to help him out in attack. Be ready for passes into your feet and shoot if you see an opportunity. Mix up your attacking runs to throw off the oppo DM. I want him to dribble with the ball and play 1 2's with the rest of the team. Shoot if you see an opening.
Striker
Richarlison
Richarlison is a striker that has the deadly combination of pace and power. He will look to use his strength to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Kulusevski for Aouar and SMS for Ødegaard to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212 and play the below formation. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
-----------------------------------------Gunn--------------------------------
Odriozola-------Upamecano-------------Kabak---------Chilwell
---------------------------------------Llorente---------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kulusevski-----------------------------------------------------------Pulisic
-----------------------------------------SMS-------------------------------
------------------------Rashford-----------Richarlison-------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Ødegaard and put on Demiral in CB. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Nkunku on for Pulisic and SMS for Aouar to add a bit more energy into the midfield.
----------------------------------Gunn--------------------------------
Odriozola-------Demiral------Upam------Kabak--------Chilwell
-----------------------------SMS--------Llorente---------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------Nkunku----------------------------------------------Rashford-------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------Richarlison-----------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Kulusevski on for Pulisic
SMS on for Ødegaard
Kean on for Richarlison
Fresh legs to bring on.
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
------------------ Courtois ------------------
Cancelo -- De Ligt --- Bonucci - Marcelo
---------- Busquets --- Verratti -----------
--- Sancho --- De Bruyne --- Hazard ----
--------------- Lewandowski ---------------
Subs:
Lunin, Todibo, Kehrer, R.Sanches, Eriksen, Asensio, Cavani
Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim to lift the cup. We go with Hazard, De Bruyne & Sancho behind Lewandowski, offering a perfect blend of pace, trickery and unpredictability that will cause plenty of problems for their defence. We feel that this front four combined pose threats from all angles with plenty of goals in our lineup. We will look to dictate the play and take the game to the opposition. When they’re in possession we sit deep, our DM’s marshalling the middle of the park, breaking down the opposition and setting up us on the counter. We feel that we have the perfect set up to open them up on the counter with terrific pace out wide which will cause problems all afternoon for their fullbacks.
Whilst the opposition have some dangerous players we will look to significantly limit their impact by retaining possession, we will force them to track back or risk leaving their defence exposed when we push forward in numbers. We aim to make things uncomfortable for them and feel that limiting their ability to have the ball in attacking areas will severely limit any threat posed. When they are in possession our wingers drop in as we play a compact 4-5-1 formation.
Defence:
We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with pace and quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Bonucci will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. De Ligt will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top. The Dutchman sweeping up from the back and immediately looking to get us on the counter with his fantastic vision and passing.
Our fullbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have supporting cover in behind with Busquets also drifting across from DM to offer additional support. When in possession both Cancelo and Marcelo have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third. We look to draw the opposition onto us by sitting deep when they are in possession, limiting the space in behind and drawing them further up the field creating space for us to hit them on the counter.
Midfield:
Busquets will be our holding player in the middle. A top class DM we rely on his fantastic reading of the game to break up the opposition play, winning back possession and setting us up on the counter as we look to get the ball into our creative players as quickly as possible. He’ll pick up their most advanced AM and cut out their supply line. He’s also a fantastic passer which will be key in winning the midfield battle and ball retention. Alongside him we have the classy Verratti. A great passer and defensively strong he forms the perfect double pivot in front of our defence. He and Busquets will control that area of the field and look to physically impose themselves on the opposition, winning back possession and getting the ball into our attacking players as quickly as possible.
Completing our midfield we have the instrumental De Bruyne. He plays in the AM role and has free roam to push forward when in possession. A player with superb vision he will look to get on the ball as much as possible, running at the opposition drawing them in and committing a defender before playing that decisive ball. We look for him to play between the lines, dropping into pockets of space and supplying our forwards with Lewandowski ready to pounce at any moment.
He’s also a great goal scorer, perfectly capable of arriving late in the opposition box to finish or striking a thunderbolt from distance. If the opposition drop off he has license to go for goal at any opportunity.
Forward:
Up top we go with three heavy hitters which is enough to give any defence nightmares, creative geniuses Sancho and Hazard flanking the predator Lewandowski in the middle. In one on one situations Sancho and Hazard are devastating and both have license to go at the opposition. With a powerhouse frontline we go for goals, both wingers will look to cause problems, cutting inside and going direct for goal one moment and driving down the line, bamboozling the opposition before whipping the ball into the box the next. We look to draw in opposition players, freeing up our other forward to pounce with quick incisive passing in the final third
Lewandowski plays through the middle and will have a dream supply line around him. The brief is simple, get into the box and do what you do best. With the number of quality attackers we have around him Lewandowski could well find himself in one on one match ups in which he’s deadly. Play on the shoulder of the last man and as always be on your toes in the box, ready to pounce and finish anything that comes your way.
Subs;
If winning:
70 mins: Cancelo off, Kehrer on. Tighten up defensively as FB’s sit in with Kehrer adding extra protection.
80 mins: Sancho off, & Todibo on. Shut up shop time as we move to 5-4-1 as we see out the win.
If drawing:
65 mins: Verratti off, Eriksen on. Extra creativity as Eriksen plays as a twin AM next to KDB.
75 mins: Sancho off, Asensio on. Fresh legs and added goal threat as we push for the winner.
85 mins: Busquets off, Cavani on. Switch to 4-2-2-2 with Cavani & Lewandowski up top and Asensio & Hazard on the flanks. Goals.
If losing:
60 mins: Busquets off. Eriksen on.
70 mins: Cancelo off, Cavani on. All out attack as we look to turn the game around.
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
Attacking high press 3-5-2
We go with an attacking side, that is firstly solid at the back but more importantly gives us an athletic team to play at a high tempo and over power the Spurs midfield with pace and tenacity. We go with a side with a high work rate, full of energy to press from the front. The defence starts with the front two.
Our formation allows us to play quick flowing play but also go with two up top. The front two set the tempo for the game with their all action styles. Both have the ability to drop deep and join in the attacks. Bernardo the AM. We have three cms able to pick a pass, and with the ability to dictate the tempo of the game and control possession. Rodri plays as the dm, his tactical awareness being key in front of a strong back 3.
The width is provided by the wing backs, and by an over lapping cb. Stealing a Sheffield United tactic, we allow one cb to get forward at a time. Alaba/Militao overlapping the attacking wbs. This will see us always have two cbs and Rodri at dm in defence when we attack offering cover.
We will direct our attacks down the wings. Both wing backs will have freedom to attack, bombing down the wings and crossing for the front two. The overlapping cbs, wbs and AM with front two will give us an overload in attacking situations.
We defend in a narrow formation, limiting the space for Spurs to play in. The wingback on the opposite side of play will drop back into defence forming a back four. The wb on the side of play helps the cb on the side of play defend against the attacking winger and fb.
The defence and midfield press as a unit, ensuring there is no space between the lines for Spurs attacking mids. When defending, Rodri plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area. Pogba will play ball side of Rodri. Bernardo drops deep pressing the space next to Pogba and in front of Rodri and always press the passing lanes. Pogba will pick up the 2nd most attacking cm if they break forward. Dybala looks to exploit the space out wide by their attacking fb and Lautaro splits the space between their cbs.
When we win the ball we attack at pace. Use the wing backs bombing forward linking with the overlapping cb am and forwards.
----------—-—---- Neuer ------------------
----------------------------------------------
-------Militao -- Laporte --Alaba ----
----------------------------------------------
Carvajal ---- Rodri -- Pogba --- Mendy
----------------- Bernardo.S ---------------
------------------------------------------------
------------ Dybala ---- Lautaro.M -------
Subs. Schmeichel, Marquinhos, Thiago, Arthur, Dembele, Jesus, Lukaku
Defence
When we lose the ball high up the park we always look to win it back straight away, don’t give Spurs a chance to counter. The closest 2/3 players press. Allowing others to get back into position behind the ball. Neuer also guards against hopeful long balls over the top in his sweeper keeper role.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
When Spurs get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation set out above. Our defence have fantastic pace up against their forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Attack
We counter quickly when we win the ball aiming our attacks down the wings. If the counter is not on we look to get the wing backs and wide forwards doubling up on their fbs, with one of the strikers always helping.
The back 3 are all comfortable on the ball and look to play out, helping us move the ball quickly having a strong base. Neuer's accurate long balls will also help as we seek to counter quickly exposing space left by Spurs in attack.
Subs.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Thiago for Bernardo. More energy in cm. 3-5-2.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Jesus for Lautaro. Fresh pace to get at tired defences.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Lukaku for Dybala, powerful striker to bully tired Spurs.
If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Jesus for Mendy. 4-2-3-1. Jesus LW, Bernardo RW, Dybala begins Lautaro.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Thiago and Lukaku for Rodri and Lautaro.
Bournemouth Tactics: Europa League round 1
Captain: Felipe
Vice Captain: Fernandes
Team:
---------------------Ivan
Khellven--Felipe—Torres-----Lodi
-----------------Fernandes
---------Guimarães---Reinier
Antony---------------------------Tetê
------------------Vinícius
SUBS: Cleiton, Iago, Gabriel, Henrique, Pyerre, Kaio J, Cunha
We want to play a neat crisp passing game at high tempo using our obvious pace to punish the opponent. Our formation will be a 4-3-3 that will allow our full backs to join in the attack when necessary and also offer us the flexibility to fall back into a more standard 4-4-2 when under pressure. We need to boss the midfield from the start and control the game with our own tempo. When in possession use the ball well and try and bring our wide men in to play. When chasing the ball press the opponent with urgency and all over the park. Don’t take too many risks and hold onto the ball. With our creativity and pace we will be able to open teams up. Wait for the chances to arise and take them when they come.
Goalkeeper: Ivan is a big mobile keeper and very agile. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: Fernandes will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. Guimarães and Reinier will play just in front of Fernandes. Guimarães will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Reinier will be the midfield magician. Clever, elusive and tricky we will look to him for creating the midfield openings with his eye for a pass. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Antony and Tetê will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Reinier, Guimarães and Vinícius in to play. They can vary their attacks by going wide or cutting inside as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Guimarães may sit a bit deeper allowing Reinier to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF. As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Vinícius starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great big old fashioned centre forward. We will look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. An eye for a pass and not afraid to have a go from distance. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his power pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Reinier, Tetê or Antony with Felipe, Torres, Fernandes and Vinícius to offer an aerial threat. Reinier and Tetê (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Vinícius
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Gabriel for Torres, Cunha for Vinícius and Pyerre for Guimarães, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 80 minutes) Kaio J for Guimarães and Cunha for Antony. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Cunha and Kaio J offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
-----------Fernandes
Kaio J---Reinier----Tetê
--------Vinícius---Cunha
----------------- De Gea ------------------
Pavard -- Skriniar -- Hummels -- Theo
------- B.Soumare -- Pjanic ------------
Mahrez -------- Ziyech -------- M.Diaby
----------------- Haaland -----------------
Subs:
Muric, Stones, Martinez, B.Diaz, L.Bailey, Reus, Leao
We set up with a strong side suited to playing counter attacking football in a 4-2-3-1 formation. We expect the opposition to look to dominate possession which will suit our strengths perfectly. When they’re in possession our wingers drop in as we revert to a 4-5-1 formation, as soon as we win back possession we look to break at speed with our devastating front 3 and hit them on the counter.
Skriniar is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counter attacks, Both CB’s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball to the front 3 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.
For the full backs today the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly and launching an attack of our own.
Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who they go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their experience and high technical ability, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 3 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back. Ziyech will look to dictate the play and always looking for that killer ball into our forwards.
Our front three are blessed with pace and goals. Our team will sit deep to neutralise the threat of the opposition getting in behind. This naturally means that the opposition will push higher up the field which will leave ample space for us to get in behind. We look to get in behind at all opportunities. Get the ball out wide to Mahrez or Diaby to break at speed or Ziyech to go through the middle as we look to supply our lethal finisher up top. Haaland will look to play on the shoulder of the last man, look to use his physic to get in behind and his ice cold finishing should he get played through on goal. He’ll be surrounded with have pace and creativity all around him so if the opposition drop off we look to push our wide players push up alongside Haaland giving us an attacking front three. We play a fast counter attacking brand of football and look to go for goals.
Subs;
If winning:
70 mins: Mahrez off, Bailey on. Extra pace on the counter.
80 mins: Pjanic off, Stones on. 5-4-1 shut up shop time as we tighten up with a solid defensive unit as we see the game out and take the win.
If drawing:
65 mins: Diaby off, Bailey on. Fresh legs and extra energy.
75 mins: Ziyech off, Reus on. Switch to 4-2-2-2 with two up top.
If losing:
60 mins: Pjanic off, Bailey on.
70 mins: Theo off, Reus on. 3-4-3 all out attack
------------------ Courtois -----------------
-----------------------------------------------
Bellerin -- De Ligt -- Bonucci - Marcelo
-----------------------------------------------
-- De Bruyne -- Busquets -- Eriksen ----
-----------------------------------------------
--- Sancho -- Lewandowski -- Hazard --
Subs:
Lunin, Konate, R.Sanches, Bale, Asensio, Cavani, Icardi
Captain: Bonucci
Free Kicks: De Bruyne/Hazard
Penalties: Lewandowski
Corners: Wingers
Tactics:
Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go for the win. We go with an attacking 4-3-3 as we look to play on the front foot and feel this with match up well if our opponents play their usual 3 at the back formation. We defend in numbers and look to hit them with fast direct counter attacking football. Our playmakers ready to pounce and feed our exciting front three as the opposition leave themselves exposed when pushing men football as we look punish them on the break.
Whilst the opposition have some dangerous players we will look to significantly limit their impact by retaining possession, we will force them to track back or risk leaving their defence exposed when we push forward in numbers. We aim to make things uncomfortable for them and limit any space for them to play in the final third, severely hampering their normal style of football. When they are in possession our wingers drop in as we play a compact 4-5-1 formation.
We look to draw the opposition onto us by sitting deep, limiting the space in behind us and drawing them further up the field creating space for us to hit them on the counter.
Defence:
We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with pace and quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. Bonucci be the leader and pick up their main striker. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. De Ligt will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top. The Dutchman sweeping up from the back and immediately looking to get us on the counter with his fantastic vision and passing.
Our fullbacks will look to sit in, forming a solid defensive unit and giving the opposition no space to operate. If they play two up top our FB's will narrow, offering additional cover in behind the CB's.
Offensively both Bellerin and Marcelo have license to push forward, overlapping our wingers we look to outnumber them on the flanks, creating 2 v 1 scenarios which will give us opportunities to get in behind with both FB’s having great quality in the final third.
Midfield:
We go with a three man midfield, packed with quality and experience we look to dominate and take the game to our opponents. Busquets will be our holding player in the middle and operate as a DM. A fantastic reading of the game he will look to break up the opposition play, winning back possession and setting us up on the counter as we look to get the ball into our creative players as quickly as possible. He’ll pick up their most advanced AM and cut out their supply line. He’s also a fantastic passer which will be key in winning the midfield battle and ball retention.
De Bruyne and Eriksen will be our magic men in the middle, acting as our creators in chief we look to get them on the ball as much as possible. With Busquets acting as an anchor they have freedom to get forward and pick apart the opposition. Short sharp passing will pull the opposition apart with both players capable of playing that killer pass in the final third. We want them to look for our forwards early, pinging the ball in behind for our front three to get onto as we look to hit them on the break.
Sancho & Hazard will also look drift in between the lines giving us an extra link up and creating a numerical advantage in midfield. Our gameplan is based on creating an overload in key areas, forcing the opposition to abandon their shape as they desperately scamper to cover the free man however in doing so they will be pulled out of shape and leaving gaps in their defence for our attackers to exploit.
Forwards:
Up top we go with three heavy hitters which is enough to give any defence nightmares, dangermen Sancho and Hazard flanking the predator Lewandowski in the middle. In one on one situations Sancho and Hazard are devastating and both have license to go at the opposition. With a powerhouse frontline we go for goals, both wingers will look to cause problems, cutting inside and going direct for goal one moment and driving down the line, bamboozling the opposition before whipping the ball into the box the next. We look to draw in opposition players, freeing up our other forward to pounce with quick incisive passing in the final third
Lewandowski plays through the middle and will have a dream supply line around him. The brief is simple, get into the box and do what you do best. With the number of quality attackers we have around him Lewandowski could well find himself in one on one match ups in which he’s deadly. Play on the shoulder of the last man and as always be on your toes in the box, ready to pounce and finish anything that comes your way.
Subs;
If winning:
70 mins: Eriksen off, Sanches on. Fresh legs as we keep our energy levels high.
80 mins: Sancho off, Konate on. Shut up shop time as we move to a compact 5-4-1 formation as we see the game out to take the win.
If drawing:
75 mins: Sancho off, Asensio on. Fresh legs and pace as we look to exploit a tiring defence.
85 mins: Eriksen off, Icardi on. 4-2-2-2 with Lewandowski & Icardi up top and Asensio & Hazard on the flanks. Goals.
If losing:
70 mins: Eriksen off, Asensio on. Hazard moves to AM creating an attacker trio alongside Sancho and Asensio with KDB pulling the strings behind.
80 mins: Bellerin off, Icardi on. We bring on an additional forward as we turn the screw and go for goals.
---------------------- Ter Stegen ----------------------
Mukiele ----- Boateng ----- Kamara ----- Chilwell
----------------- Partey ----- Barella -----------------
F.Chiesa ------------------------------------- Sterling
------------------ H.Kane -- J.David -----------------
Pope, Manolas, Rabiot, Nkunku, Foden, Malen, Ilicic
Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team with two banks of four with David & Kane harassing their backline and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially Partey and Barella and the front four further up the pitch as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards.
Mukiele and Chilwell have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, one will stay back creating a back 3 when we attack, bomb down the line supporting the wingers on the outside, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support the forwards. They look to play one twos with the midfield which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Boateng will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Kamara alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, both powerful defenders, Both will dominate in the air and both good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Both cbs up for corners, fullbacks stay back and a midfielder just sitting in front of them. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both CBs are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..
Partey's primary role in front of the defence is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defence where the opposition’s number 10 will likely to be operating whilst also being aware when the full-backs had pushed forward.Take care of of the No 10/SS is also a main focus, he isn't an out an out DM but he has a lot of grit and determination to his game so stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him.
Barella and has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for team mates, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running they are expected to do and he does a lot. The box-to-box midfielder is more likely to be found on the side of the pitch where the full-back that is less efficient in the attacking third plays to provide balance on both flanks, he also has a mean shot from distance and isn't afraid to have a pop.
Wingers are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area, I want them to drive on the outside and play as a natural winger not an inside forward unless supported by fullbacks. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos. Use the midfield to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fullbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using David and Kane to get into danger areas. Both wingers have fantastic forwards to aim for in Kane & David so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack. We go with a front two today, we need goals these two will get plenty chances, however they must put away. I want them to bully the slower/weaker of the two/three. Get into positions that they can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower/weaker of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. They can score from various angles/ranges even dropping back and from distance, with hopefully a few crosses coming in they can get up and above defenders for. Can both hold it up and look for runners, in particular Sterling and Chiesa will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side for each other if they cant go themselves. When we defend I want one dropping back to take care of the DM and make an extra man in there so we are not over powered in the middle.
We must defend as a team tho, 4-4-1-1 with David dropping back, everyone hot on the tails of the opposition, we cant give away cheap goals,so wingers track back and cover the fullbacks, even just to stop them supporting the wingers, we must drive into them and presurize them into mistakes
Captain - Partey
Pens - Kane
Free Kicks - J.David
Corners - Wingers
Subs
Losing
65 Mins - Malen for Chiesa
75 Mins - Ilicic for Chiwell, he goes up top, David to No.10 3-4-1-2, Rabiot for Barella same time
WInning
75 Mins - Rabiot for David and into a 3 man midfield, Malen for Chiesa
Drawing
65 Mins - Malen for Chiesa, Rabiot for Barella, Ilicic for David
------------------------- Oblak -------------------------
Bissaka ------ Tapsoba ------ Lenglet ------ Gosens
------------- F. de Jong ------ F.Valverde ------------
Mbappe ------------ Greenwood ------------ Neymar
------------------------- Werner ------------------------
Lafont, van Dijk, Locatelli, Tielemans, Ferran, Neres, Dembele
Our game is based solely on possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with Valverde and de Jong ahead of them just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and our midfield will be in and around the half way line, Greenwood slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow us to dictate play, defend from the front, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.
Tapsoba picks up the CF not much gets passed him, Lenglet spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, both must attack high balls to get the ball away from the opposition big men. Fullbacks keep the wingers quiet, stop their attacks Keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. When they attack, only one at a time, they drive down the line in support of the wingers drive on the outside making an extra man. If either get caught up field I want Valverde & de Jong to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. CB's to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and de Jong sitting back.
de Jong our deepest midfielder sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. Valverde will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defence as best as possible, in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Greenwood as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Greenwood is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in an advanced No.10/SS role and look for the de jong/Valverde/CB pass. He will drop back at times to pick it up and will look to his dribbling capabilities to get him around players, sometimes taking a foul as he is a tricky player to mark. When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front and Join Werner and co looking for goals When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart and create space for the front 3 and support them as best he can. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.
Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders our defenders are superb long ball passers, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Neymar will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Greenwood to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Martial who can beat any defender with power and pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Werner who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain - de Jong
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Neymar (when going for goal) otherwise de Jong
Corners - Wingers
Subs -
Losing -
65 Mins we go 4-4-2 with Dembele on for Greenwood
75 Mins - Bissaka to RCB, Ferran on for Gosens and to RW, Mbappe-Dembele-Werner up top very attcking 3-4-3
Winning -
75 Mins - Locatelli for Greenwood and he sits in behind the two CMs to shore it up
83 Mins - Dembele for Werner
Drawing -
65 Mins - Ferran for Greenwood, Mbappe up front with Werner, Ferran to RW, 4-4-2
75 Mins - Dembele for Werner
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
Bournemouth v NORWICH CITY
Ramsdale
Vrsaljko, Caleta-Car, Ajer, Justin
Gueye, Koopmeiners
Bowen, Brooks, Saint-Maximin
Suárez
Subs: Milenkovic, Tanganga, Domínguez, Nández, Traoré, Cantwell, Vlahovic
Free Kicks & Pens – Koopmeiners
Our defensive unit consists of Duje Caleta-Car and Kristoffer Ajer paired up at centre-back, Sime Vrsaljko at right-back and James Justin at left-back, with Teun Koopmeiners and Idrissa Gueye as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Koopmeiners and Gueye we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Gueye can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Koopmeiners can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Gueye's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Gueye running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Teun Koopmeiners.
Koopmeiners is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Koopmeiners such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Jarrod Bowen, David Brooks and Allan Saint-Maximin as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Koopmeiners or Gueye, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Vrsaljko and Justin can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Koopmeiners and Gueye can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Jarrod Bowen and Saint-Maximin, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. David Brooks our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Brooks is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer with his one-touch passing and quick flicks, and who will combine exceptionally well with Bowen, Saint-Maximin & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.
Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Bowen, Brooks & Saint-Maximin to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.
Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suarez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.
All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.
Subs on 75 mins
Traoré on for Bowen and Cantwell on for Saint-Maximin
Double substitution - Lots of energy and pace in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line
PORTSMOUTH vs pool
------------------------------Nubel ---------------------------
Aarons---------Ramos---------De Vrij-----------F Mendy
------------------------------- Kante ------------------------------------
--------------Kovacic ---------------- Goretzka ----------------------
--------------------------------- Fekir -----------------------------------
------------------ Son ------------------- Isak -----------------
Subs - Romagnoli, Guendouzi, Ndombele, Adama, Barnes, Harit, Abraham
CAPTAIN - RAMOS
CK'S - FEKIR
FK'S - FEKIR
PENALTIES - FEKIR
When we don't have possession of the ball in our half I want the whole team except the strikers to get in our half and defend. Play a deep defensive line so that oppo can't use their pacy forwards to beat the offside trap. When we win possession of the ball I want the players to keep hold of possession and try and work some space. We have good ball players in the centre and they will help keep us ticking.
Defence
Nubel in net, command your box and don't do anything flashy. De Vrij and Ramos bring experience to the backline. Ramos will focus on marking the oppo striker and will look to stick close to him and to watch out for his attacking runs. Stay aggressive and not let him turn you. De Vrij will mark the other striker if the oppo is playing 2 up front or to watch out any attacking runs of their AM if they play him instead.
Full backs
Aarons + Mendy
Aarons and Mendy will look to help both in attack and defence. Make forays forward when we have the ball in the oppos side of the pitch but track back when we don't. Get some crosses into the box as Isak is very good in the air. Kante will be covering for you if you are out of position
Defence Mid
N'golo Kante
Kante will be tasked with protecting the defence. A true definition of never say die attitude he will be running all game and doing what he does best and win the ball off of the oppo. Cover for our fullbacks when they overlap and are out of position. Stick close to the oppo AM/their most attacking midfielder and pressure him as soon as he gets the ball. He will not be able to handle your relentless pressing. When you have possession of the ball quickly pass it to either Ndombele/Goretzka.
Centre Mids
Goretzka + Kovacic
Kovacic will be the more defensive of the two as I want him to focus on being the link from defence to attack. Main job is to get the ball from deep and to use your pace and technical ability to open up the oppo midfield. Goretzka will play a b2b role. Make runs forward and play pass and move passes with teammates and help the attack whenever you can. Make late runs into the box to try and score.
Attack Mid
Nabil Fekir
Fekir will be playing as the AM today. I want him to use his great dribbling ability and passing to create chances for our 2 strikers up front. Look out for the runs of our attackers and make runs into the box whenever you can. Shoot from range if you see an opportunity.
Strikers
Son + Isak
I want both the strikers to use their pace and play off of the oppo shoulders and try and beat the offside trap. Be aware of lofted through balls and time your runs as best as you can. When in the box use your quickness and agility to get into good positions away from oppo defenders. Play quick one two's with each other to penetrate the oppo defence. I want Isak to stay upfront and just focus on attacking, being ready for penetrating passes from his teammates. Be aware of crosses into the box and use your superhuman athletic ability to outjump the oppo defenders.
IF WINNING BY 65 MINS
Change formation to 4231. Play deep and hit the oppo on the counter.
Take off Goretzka and put on Guendouzi in DM next to Kante to give the defence even more protection. Adama on for Kovacic to play RM and Barnes on for Son to play LM.
---------------------------- Nubel ---------------------------
Aarons--------Ramos-------De Vrij--------Mendy
--------------,-Guendouzi--------Kante---------------------
Adama--------------------------------------------------Barnes
-------------------------------Fekir---------------------------------
------------------------------- Isak -----------------------------
IF LOSING BY 65 MINS
Take off Kovacic and put on Harit in CM. Play close to each other and put a tonne of pressure in the oppo defence. Defend high up and try and score a goal. Swap Kante for Adama aswell.
----------------------------- Nubel ---------------------------
Aarons---------De Vrij-------Ramos--------Mendy
--------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------Goretzka ------- Harit ----------------
------------------------------- Fekir ------------------------------
------ Adama--------------Isak------------Son -----------------
IF DRAWING BY 65MINS
Abraham on for Son
Ndombele on for Kovacic
Harit on for Fekir
Fresh legs.
SOTON VS Arsenal
----------------------------------------Gunn-----------------------
Odriozola------Upamecano--------Kabak--------Shaw
---------------------------Lo Celso---------Llorente--------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pulisic---------------------------------------------------------Richarlison
------------------------------------Odegaard--------------------------------
---------------------------------------J Felix-----------------------------------
Subs - M Sarr, Demiral, SMS, McTominay, Kluivert, Kulusevski, Kean
CAPTAIN - UPAMECANO
CK'S - ØDEGAARD
FK'S - ØDEGAARD
PENALTIES - FELIX
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Upamecano and Kabak bring a lot of strength and pace to the defence. Upamecano will marshal the defence and Kabak will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Llorente will be covering for them when they go attacking.
Defence Mids
Llorente + Lo Celso
Llorente will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings but don't try any risky passes.
Lo Celso will look to pick the ball up from deep and use his pace and energy to dribble the ball out. Make runs forward and help our attacking players whenever you can. Play quick passes forward and use your agility to outmanoeuvre the oppo players. When not in possession of the ball I want him to sit alongside Llorente in the middle and protect the defence.
Wingers
Pulisic + Richarlison
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Richarlison will be looking to cut in from the left and Pulisic will be looking to get to the byline and whip in balls into the box. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of our fullbacks and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. Odriozola and Shaw are no slouches attacking wise so use them! If you can cut in onto your stronger foot, don't be afraid to shoot from range as you both have the ability to score from long range. If there is no space to do so then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Richarlison to get his head on. Help our FB's in defensive duties if the oppo winger is trying to take them on. Track back and double up on him or mark the run of the opposition FB if they try to make an overlapping run. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack.
Attack Mid
Ødegaard
Ødegaard will be playing just behind Richarlison and will look to help him out in attack. Be ready for passes into your feet and shoot if you see an opportunity. Mix up your attacking runs to throw off the oppo DM. I want him to dribble with the ball and play 1 2's with the rest of the team. Shoot if you see an opening.
Striker
Joao Felix
Felix is a striker that has the deadly combination of pace and finishing. He will look to use his pace to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to fund spaces in the oppo defence.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Kulusevski for Lo Celso and SMS for Ødegaard to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212 and play the below formation. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
-----------------------------------------Gunn--------------------------------
Odriozola-------Upamecano-------------Kabak---------Shaw
---------------------------------------Llorente---------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kulusevski-----------------------------------------------------------Pulisic
-----------------------------------------SMS-------------------------------
------------------------------Felix-----------Richarlison-------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Ødegaard and put on Demiral in CB. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Kulusevskion for Pulisic and SMS for Lo Celso to add a bit more energy into the midfield.
----------------------------------Gunn--------------------------------
Odriozola-------Demiral------Upam------Kabak--------Shaw
-----------------------------SMS--------Llorente---------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------Kulusevski---------------------------------------Richarlison-------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------Felix-----------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Kulusevski on for Pulisic
SMS on for Ødegaard
Kluivert on for Richarlison
Fresh legs to bring on.
Bournemouth (4-3-3) Europa League Round 2
Captain : Gabriel
Vice Captain : Cleiton
-------------------Cleiton
Emerson--Felipe--Gabriel----Lodi
------Guimarães----Henrique
-----------------Reinier
Antony--------------------------Pepê
----------------Vinícius
SUBS: Peacock, Iago, Murilo, Assunção, Tetê, Kaio, Cunha
SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Guimarães) who will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Henrique). In front of them Reinier will operate as the link between midfield and attack. This I feel will give us a better balanced midfield and while being absolutely defensively sound with 2 ‘sitting’ Henrique will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Reinier and attack. I think this set-up lets us link up quickly with our attack while at the same time that little bit of extra cautiousness means it will be easy for us to close the door in midfield with all 3 players as comfortable sitting and breaking up attacks if necessary.
We want to play a nice tidy and crisp passing game. Our aim is to move the ball forward as quickly and as effectively as possible. When we have the ball we will use it wisely and when we don’t have the ball then we will press our opponents all over the park with high urgency to win it back. We want to keep the ball on the deck and attack as a team and equally as important defend as a team. This team is bursting with pace. We will utilise that to our advantage and make the pitch wide and use our flying wingers to cause all sorts of mayhem. It will also be a tool that we use to hit opponents on the counter where we know we can out pace any team.
Goalkeeper: Cleiton is a big mobile keeper and very agile. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: We will operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Guimarães). He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Henrique). He has a more conservative role this week and while being a little more constrained than normal he will still have the opportunity to bomb forward when the time is right. They will both have to put a defensive shift in and both are very strong in the tackle. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition. In front of them Reinier will operate as the link between midfield and attack.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Antony and Pepê will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Reinier, Henrique and Vinícius in to play. They can vary their attacks as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Henrique may sit a bit deeper allowing Reinier to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF.
As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Vinícius starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great playing off the shoulder of the last man he is deadly in and around the box. A bag of energy and very strong we will also look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his lightning pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Reinier, Pepê or Antony with Felipe, Gabriel, Guimarães and Vinícius to offer an aerial threat. Reinier and Pepê (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Substitutions: (75 mins) If winning (and comfortable) then 3 like for like subs – Murilo for Felipe, Assunção for Guimarães and Cunha for Vinícius.
If losing (70 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Henrique with Cunha and Antony with Kaio. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
----------Guimarães
Kaio------Reinier-----Pepê
----------Cunha -----Vinícius
Comment deleted by Article Creator
--------------------- De Gea -----------------------
-------- Pavard --- Skriniar --- Hummels -------
Meunier --- Torreira --- McKennie --- B.Mendy
--------- R.Mahrez ---------- H.Ziyech -----------
--------------------- T.Werner ----------------------
Subs:
Muric, Bailly, Soumare, B.Diaz, Bailey, Leao, Lacazette
We set up with a strong side suited to playing counter attacking football in a 3-4-2-1 formation. We expect to dominate possession and fast expansive football will suit our strengths perfectly. When they’re in possession our wingers drop in as we revert to a 5-4-1 formation, as soon as we win back possession we look to break at speed with our devastating front 3 hitting them on the counter.
Defence:
Skriniar is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, all three centre backs will stay back ensuring we are always prepared with a strong back 3 if we lose possession to stop counter attacks, The CB’s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball to the front 2 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.
For the wings backs today the objective is to get forward, hugging the touch line and whipping balls in for our forwards to attack. Defensively they will look to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly and launching an attack of our own. Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who they go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.
Midfield:
The focus of the midfield 2 will be to use their high energy and technical ability working in collaboration with the front 3 and wingbacks to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use this movement to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Forwards:
Our front three are blessed with pace and goals. Our team will sit deep to neutralise the threat of the opposition getting in behind. This naturally means that the opposition will push higher up the field which will leave ample space for us to get in behind. We look to get in behind at all opportunities. Get the ball out wide to Mahrez or Ziyech as we look to supply our lethal finisher up top. Werner will look to play on the shoulder of the last man, look to use his physic to get in behind and his ice cold finishing should he get played through on goal. He’ll be surrounded with have pace and creativity all around him so if the opposition drop off we look to push our wide players push up alongside Werner giving us an attacking front three. We play a fast counter attacking brand of football and look to go for goals.
Subs;
If winning:
65 mins: McKennie off, Soumare on.
75 mins: Mahrez off, L.Bailey on. Pace to finish them off on the counter.
If drawing:
70 mins: Mahrez and McKennie off, L.Bailey + Brahim on. Ziyech slots into CM whilst Bailey and Brahim flank Haaland.
If losing:
70 mins: McKennie and Hummels off, Brahim and Lacazette on. Attacking 4-2-2-2 as we go for goals.
NORWICH CITY v Arsenal
Woodman
Vrsaljko, Caleta-Car, Ajer, Grimaldo
Brozovic, Nández
Brooks, Fornals, Cantwell
Suárez
Subs: Justin, Tanganga, Rodon, Lewis, Koopmeiners, Bowen, Brewster
Our defensive unit consists of Duje Caleta-Car and Kristoffer Ajer paired up at centre-back, Sime Vrsaljko at right-back and Alejandro Grimaldo at left-back, with Marcelo Brozovic and Nahitan Nández as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Brozovic and Nández we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Nández can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Brozovic can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Nández's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Nández running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Marcelo Brozovic.
Brozovic is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Brozovic such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of David Brooks, Pablo Fornals and Todd Cantwell as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Brozovic or Nández, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Vrsaljko and Grimaldo can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Brozovic and Nández can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both David Brooks and Todd Cantwell, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Pablo Fornals our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Fornals is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer with his one-touch passing and quick flicks, and who will combine exceptionally well with Brooks, Cantwell & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.
Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Brooks, Fornals & Cantwell to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.
Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suarez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.
All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.
Subs on 75 mins
Lewis on for Grimaldo and Bowen on for Brooks
Double substitution - Lots of energy and pace in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line
Attacking high press 3-5-2
We go with an attacking side, that is firstly solid at the back but more importantly gives us quality to dictate play in midfield and the ability to play at a high tempo. We go with a side with a high work rate, full of energy to press from the front. The defence starts with the front two.
Our formation allows us to play quick flowing play but also go with two up top. The front two set the tempo for the game with their all action styles. Both have the ability to drop deep and join in the attacks. Pogba the AM. We have three cms able to pick a pass, and with the ability to dictate the tempo of the game and control possession. Gilmour plays as the deep Cm, Thiago’s tactical awareness next to him being key in front of a strong back 3.
The width is provided by the wing backs, and by an over lapping cb. Stealing a Sheffield United tactic, we allow one cb to get forward at a time. Alaba/Militao overlapping the attacking wbs. This will see us always have two cbs and a deep Cm in defence when we attack offering cover.
We will direct our attacks down the wings. Both wing backs will have freedom to attack, bombing down the wings and crossing for the front two. The overlapping cbs, wbs and AM with front two will give us an overload in attacking situations.
We defend in a narrow formation, limiting the space for City to play in. The wingback on the opposite side of play will drop back into defence forming a back four. The wb on the side of play helps the cb on the side of play defend against the attacking winger and fb.
The defence and midfield press as a unit, ensuring there is no space between the lines for City attacking mids. When defending, Gilmour plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area. Thiago will play ball side of Gilmour. Pogba drops deep pressing the space next to Thiago and in front of Gilmour and always press the passing lanes. Pogba will pick up the 2nd most attacking cm if they break forward. Dybala looks to exploit the space out wide by their attacking fb and Lautaro splits the space between their cbs.
When we win the ball we attack at pace. Use the wing backs bombing forward linking with the overlapping cb am and forwards.
----------—-—---- Neuer ------------------
----------------------------------------------
-------Militao -- Laporte --Alaba ----
----------------------------------------------
Carvajal --- Gilmour -- Thiago.A --- Theo.H
------------——---- Pogba ---------------
------------------------------------------------
------------ Dybala ---- Lautaro.M -------
Subs. Schmeichel, Marquinhos, Rodri, Arthur, Gnabry, Dembele, Osimhen
Defence
When we lose the ball high up the park we always look to win it back straight away, don’t give City a chance to counter. The closest 2/3 players press. Allowing others to get back into position behind the ball. Neuer also guards against hopeful long balls over the top in his sweeper keeper role.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
When City get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation set out above. Our defence have fantastic pace up against their forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Attack
We counter quickly when we win the ball aiming our attacks down the wings. If the counter is not on we look to get the wing backs and wide forwards doubling up on their fbs, with one of the strikers always helping.
The back 3 are all comfortable on the ball and look to play out, helping us move the ball quickly having a strong base. Neuer's accurate long balls will also help as we seek to counter quickly exposing space left by City in attack.
Subs.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Rodri for Gilmour. More power and energy in cm.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Gnabry for Dybala. Fresh pace to get at tired defences.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Arthur on for Pogna.
If drawing or losing after 67 mins bring on Gnabry for Theo. 4-2-3-1. Gnabry LW, Dybala RW.
If drawing or losing after 72 mins bring on Dembele for Gilmour. Pogba to Cm, Thiago dm.
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Tactics
Page 14 of 78
15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19
posted on 9/5/20
-------------------- De Gea ----------------------
------- Pavard --- Skriniar --- Chiellini -------
Hakimi ---- Torreira --- Pjanic --- Hernandez
-------------------- H.Ziyech --------------------
------------- Haaland --- Lacazette -----------
Subs:
Muric, Hummels, McKennie, D.Silva, Mahrez, Bailey, Reus
We set up with a strong side suited to playing counter attacking football in a 3-4-1-2 formation. We expect the opposition to look to dominate possession which will suit our strengths perfectly. When they’re in possession our wingers drop in as we revert to a 5-3-2 formation, as soon as we win back possession we look to break at speed with our devastating front 3 and hit them on the counter.
Skriniar is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, all three centre backs will stay back ensuring we are always prepared with a strong back 3 if we lose possession to stop counter attacks, The CB’s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball to the front 2 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.
For the full backs today the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly and launching an attack of our own. Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who they go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their experience and high technical ability, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 2 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 2 flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back. Ziyech will look to dictate the play and always looking for that killer ball into our forwards.
We play we a front two blessed with pace and goals. Our team will sit deep to neutralise the threat of the opposition getting in behind. This naturally means that the opposition will push higher up the field which will leave ample space for us to get in behind. We look to get in behind at all opportunities. Get the ball out wide to Hakimi or Theo to break at speed or Ziyech to go through the middle as we look to supply our lethal finishers up top.
Lacazette will be our link up man, playing alongside Haaland will cause their CB’s all sorts of problems as he looks to drift between the lines. If the focus is on our other CF this will free up Lacazette who’s deadly if given space to shoot. Haaland will look to play on the shoulder of the last man, look to use his physic to get in behind and his ice cold finishing should he get played through on goal. He’ll be surrounded with creativity all around him so if the opposition drop off we look to push our fullbacks forward with both having great delivery for our front two to attack. We play a fast counter attacking brand of football and look to go for goals.
Subs;
If winning:
65 mins: Ziyech off, McKennie on.
75 mins: Lacazette off, Reus on. Pace to finish them off on the counter.
If drawing:
60 mins: Pjanic off, D.Silva on.
70 mins: Lacazette and Ziyech off, Mahrez and Reus on. Switch to 3-4-3 as we get at them and go for the winner.
If losing:
70 mins: Pjanic and Chiellini off, D.Silva and Mahrez on. Attacking 4-2-2-2 as we go for goals.
posted on 9/5/20
-------------------------- Oblak ---------------------------
Bissaka ------ van Dijk ------ Zagadou ------ Lucas.H
-------------- F. de Jong ----- F.Valverde ---------------
Mbappe --------------- Zaniolo ---------------- Neymar
------------------------ T.Werner -------------------------
Lafont, Tonali, Bellingham, Ferran, Martial, Dembele, Greenwood
Our game is based solely on possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with Valverde and de Jong ahead of them just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and our midfield will be in and around the half way line, Zaniolo slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow us to dictate play, defend from the front, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.
van Dijk picks up the CF not much gets passed him, Zagadou spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, both must attack high balls to get the ball away from the opposition big men. Fullbacks keep the wingers quiet, stop their attacks Keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. When they attack, only one at a time, they drive down the line in support of the wingers drive on the outside making an extra man. If either get caught up field I want Valverde & de Jong to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. van Dijk and Zagadou to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and de Jong sitting back.
de Jong our deepest midfielder sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. Valverde will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defence as best as possible, in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Zaniolo as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Zaniolo is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in an advanced No.10 role and look for the de jong/Valverde/CB pass. He will drop back at times to pick it up and will look to his dribbling capabilities to get him around players, sometimes taking a foul as he is a tricky player to mark. When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front. When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart and create space for the front 3. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.
Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders our defenders are superb long ball passers, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Neymar will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Zaniolo to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Martial who can beat any defender with power and pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Werner who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain - van Dijk
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Neymar (when going for goal) otherwise de Jong
Corners - Wingers
Subs -
Losing -
65 Mins - Ferran for Zaniolo, Greenwood for Werner, 4-4-2 with Mbappe and Greenwood up top, Ferran to the right
75 Mins - Martial for Bissaka, 3-4-3, Martial to the left of the front 3
Winning -
75 Mins - Tonali for Zaniolo, he goes in between def and mid and look to control the game
80 Mins - Greenwood for Werner, Bellingham for Valverde
Drawing -
70 Mins - Ferran for Zaniolo, Bellingham for Valverde 442 Ferran to RW, Mbappe up top
80 Mins - Greenwood for Werner
posted on 9/5/20
--------------------- Ter Stegen ---------------------
Mukiele ----- Rudiger ----- Kamara ----- Wijndal
----------------- Partey ---- Tousart -----------------
F.Chiesa ------------------------------------- Sterling
----------------- H.Kane -- J.David ------------------
Pope, Akanji, Rice, Alli, Malen, Felix, M.Camara
Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team with two banks of four with David & Kane harassing their backline and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially Partey, Tousart & and the front four further up the pitch as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards.
Mukiele and Wjndfal have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, one will stay back creating a back 3 when we attack, bomb down the line supporting the wingers on the outside, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support the forwards. They look to play one twos with the midfield which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Rudiger will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Kamara alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, both powerful defenders, Both will dominate in the air and both good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Both cbs up for corners, fullbacks stay back and a midfielder just sitting in front of them. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both CBs are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..
Partey's primary role in front of the defence is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defence where the opposition’s number 10 will likely to be operating whilst also being aware when the full-backs had pushed forward.Take care of of the No 10/SS is also a main focus, he isn't an out an out DM but he has a lot of grit and determination to his game so stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him.
Tousart and has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for team mates, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running they are expected to do and he does a lot. The box-to-box midfielder is more likely to be found on the side of the pitch where the full-back that is less efficient in the attacking third plays to provide balance on both flanks, he also has a mean shot from distance and isn't afraid to have a pop.
Wingers are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area, I want them to drive on the outside and play as a natural winger not an inside forward unless supported by fullbacks. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos. Use the midfield to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fulbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using David and Kane to get into danger areas. Both wingers have fantastic forwards to aim for in Kane & David so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack. We go with a front two today, we need goals these two will get plenty chances, however they must put away. I want them to bully the slower/weaker of the two/three. Get into positions that they can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower/weaker of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. They can score from various angles/ranges even dropping back and from distance, with hopefully a few crosses coming in they can get up and above defenders for. Can both hold it up and look for runners, in particular Sterling and Chiesa will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side for each other if they cant go themselves. When we defend I want one dropping back to take care of the DM and make an extra man in there so we are not over powered in the middle.
We must defend as a team tho, 4-4-1-1 from the front, everyone hot on the tails of the opposition, we cant give away cheap goals,so wingers track back and cover the fullbacks, even just to stop them supporting the wingers, we must drive into them and pressurize them into mistakes
Captain - Partey
Pens - Kane
Frre Kicks - J.David
Corners - Wingers
Losing -
65 Mins - D.Malen for Wijndal we go 3-4-3
Winning
70 Mins - D.Rice for David, into DM 451
80 Mins - Malen for Kane
Drawing
65 Mins - Malen for David
75 Mins - Felix for Wijndal 3412
posted on 10/5/20
Arsenal v NORWICH CITY
Ramsdale
Vrsaljko, Caleta-Car, Ajer, Digne
Gueye, Koopmeiners
Brooks, Fornals, Saint-Maximin
Suárez
Subs: Woodman, Tanganga, Lewis, Nández, Bowen, Cantwell, Vlahovic
Free Kicks & Pens – Koopmeiners
Our defensive unit consists of Duje Caleta-Car and Kristoffer Ajer paired up at centre-back, Sime Vrsaljko at right-back and Lucas Digne at left-back, with Teun Koopmeiners and Idrissa Gueye as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Koopmeiners and Gueye we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Gueye can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Koopmeiners can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Gueye's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Gueye running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Teun Koopmeiners.
Koopmeiners is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Koopmeiners such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of David Brooks, Pablo Fornals and Allan Saint-Maximin as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Koopmeiners or Gueye, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Vrsaljko and Digne can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Koopmeiners and Gueye can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both David Brooks and Saint-Maximin, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Pablo Fornals our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Fornals is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer with his one-touch passing and quick flicks, and who will combine exceptionally well with Brooks, Saint-Maximin & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.
Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Brooks, Fornals & Saint-Maximin to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.
Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suarez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.
All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.
Subs on 75 mins
Bowen on for Brooks and Cantwell on for Saint-Maximin
Double substitution - Lots of energy and pace in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line
posted on 10/5/20
Attacking high press 3-5-2
We go with an attacking side, that will press the opposition in high areas of the park, this will be important to ensuring our dominance on the game. We want to get at the Pompey defence so we stick with our usual formation with two strikers. Our side is firstly solid at the back but more importantly gives us a team to go and take the game to Pompey. We go with a side with a high work rate, full of energy to press from the front. The defence starts with the front two and Bernardo behind with their all action styles.
The team is setup with 3 cbs comfortable on the ball, 3 central midfield players who love to control possession, wing backs providing width and two strikers. We play to control the game, starting with the back 3 in attack and the forwards in defence.
We look to overload the Pompey defence with our attacking players. With a high tempo team we look to push them back. Keep them locked in their own half. With our quality and numbers; two strikers, and a midfield 5, we can dominate midfield. The front two will be crucial in creating gaps in their defence, with two forwards occupying their cbs, this will create space for Bernardo in AM to get forward, and also for the wingers when they get around the box.
A dangerous front 5 full of pace, we aim to get at the Pompey goal. When we lose the ball, we use the pace and all action styles to win it back quickly. Don't let them get out. Leave them tired chasing our speedy attackers, and more importantly chasing the ball. Win it back before they can counter or shut them down so we can get back. If they go long our back 3 will dominate with their strength.
Our formation gives us a solid base, with three strong defenders tasked with remaining strong at the back, and in front two cms who offer a great mix of tenacity and tactical awareness. The 3 cbs have a great mix of pace and power.
This set up means we will be more direct, the back three are all excellent in possession and in Neves and Arthur in front they have players comfortable coming deep and taking the ball from the defence. From here we will vary our play. An important variation to our play will also be the long ball, and Bastoni, Marquinhos, Arthur and Neves all have strong long passing ability to mix it up.
The front two set the tempo for the game with their all action styles. Both have the ability to drop deep and join in the attacks. Bernardo the AM, similarly plays with high intensity. We have three cms able to pick a pass, and with the ability to dictate the tempo of the game and control possession.
We defend in a narrow formation, limiting the space for Pompey to play in. As the opposition push higher up the park one wing back will drop back to full back on the opposite side of play. On the side of play the wing back defends with the wide cb in the fb position behind him.
The defence and midfield press as a unit, ensuring there is no space between the lines for Pompey attacking mids. When defending, Neves plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area. Bernardo will play ball side of Arthur and always press the passing lanes. One of Lautaro/Dybala looks to sit on their dm, simply take him out the game.
When we win the ball we attack at pace. The wbs look to aim their crosses for the man, no hopefully high crosses, they have to either direct them low and or cross in front of the man for the striker to dive on to. They will be deliberate in their play, get to the byline and cutting back rather than crossing where possible.
------------------- Henderson ------------------
----------------------------------------------
----- Marquinhos - Varane — Bastoni ------
------------------------------------------------
R.James ----- Neves --- Arthur -—- Alaba
------------------- Bernardo.S -------------
------------------------------------------------
------------- P.Dybala ---Lautaro -------
Subs. Schmeichel, Palacios, Rodri, Gnabry, Trincao, Jesus, Osimhen
Defence
When we lose the ball high up the park we always look to win it back straight away, don’t give Pompey a chance to counter. The closest 2/3 players press. Allowing others to get back into position behind the ball. Henderson guards against hopeful long balls over the top in his sweeper keeper role.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
When Pompey get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation set out above. Our defence have fantastic pace up against their forwards, bide their time, not diving in. In this 4-4-1-1 formation, as above.
Attack
We counter quickly when we win the ball, using the width to stretch the play and create space for Dybala and Bernardo in pockets of space centrally. When we go wide, both Dybala and Lautaro in the box getting on the end of passes or crosses. Wbs look to cross low or pass to their man, as their cbs will dominate in the air.
Subs.
If winning after 67 mins bring on Osimhen for Lautaro. Fresh pace to get at the opposition.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Trincao for Dybala. More pace. 3421 with Trincao adding more width to stretch the game against tiring legs.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Palacios for Arthur, fresh energy in Cm to see game out.
If drawing or losing after 62 mins bring on Gnabry for Bastoni. Drops to 4-2-3-1. Wbs to fb. Gnabry left, Dybala behind Lautaro, Brernardo right. Mix it up.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Jesus and Palacios for Bernardo and Arthur. All action energy to give us fresh pace in attack
posted on 11/5/20
PORTSMOUTH vs Leicester
------------------------------Safonov ---------------------------
Aarons---------Ramos---------Lenglet-----------F Mendy
------------------------------- Kante ------------------------------------
--------------Kovacic ---------------- Goretzka ----------------------
--------------------------------- Bruno -----------------------------------
------------------ Son ------------------- Ronaldo -----------------
Subs - Romagnoli, Guendouzi, Ndombele, Adama, Barnes, Harit, DCL
CAPTAIN - BRUNO
CK'S - BRUNO
FK'S - RONALDO
PENALTIES - RONALDO
When we don't have possession of the ball in our half I want the whole team except the strikers to get in our half and defend. Play a deep defensive line so that oppo can't use their pacy forwards to beat the offside trap. When we win possession of the ball I want the players to keep hold of possession and try and work some space. We have good ball players in the centre and they will help keep us ticking.
Defence
Safonov in net, command your box and don't do anything flashy. Lenglet and Ramos bring experience to the backline. Ramos will focus on marking the oppo striker and will look to stick close to him and to watch out for his attacking runs. Stay aggressive and not let him turn you. Lenglet will mark the other striker if the oppo is playing 2 up front or to watch out any attacking runs of their AM if they play him instead.
Full backs
Aarons + Mendy
Aarons and Mendy will look to help both in attack and defence. Make forays forward when we have the ball in the oppos side of the pitch but track back when we don't. Get some crosses into the box as Ronaldo is very good in the air. Kante will be covering for you if you are out of position
Defence Mid
N'golo Kante
Kante will be tasked with protecting the defence. A true definition of never say die attitude he will be running all game and doing what he does best and win the ball off of the oppo. Cover for our fullbacks when they overlap and are out of position. Stick close to the oppo AM/their most attacking midfielder and pressure him as soon as he gets the ball. He will not be able to handle your relentless pressing. When you have possession of the ball quickly pass it to either Ndombele/Goretzka.
Centre Mids
Goretzka + Kovacic
Kovacic will be the more defensive of the two as I want him to focus on being the link from defence to attack. Main job is to get the ball from deep and to use your pace and technical ability to open up the oppo midfield. Goretzka will play a b2b role. Make runs forward and play pass and move passes with teammates and help the attack whenever you can. Make late runs into the box to try and score.
Attack Mid
Bruno Fernandes
Bruno will be playing as the AM today. I want him to use his great dribbling ability and passing to create chances for our 2 strikers up front. Look out for the runs of our attackers and make runs into the box whenever you can. Shoot from range if you see an opportunity.
Strikers
Son + Ronaldo
I want both the strikers to use their pace and play off of the oppo shoulders and try and beat the offside trap. Be aware of lofted through balls and time your runs as best as you can. When in the box use your quickness and agility to get into good positions away from oppo defenders. Play quick one two's with each other to penetrate the oppo defence. I want Ronaldo to stay upfront and just focus on attacking, being ready for penetrating passes from his teammates. Be aware of crosses into the box and use your superhuman athletic ability to outjump the oppo defenders.
IF WINNING BY 65 MINS
Change formation to 4231. Play deep and hit the oppo on the counter.
Take off Goretzka and put on Guendouzi in DM next to Kante to give the defence even more protection. Adama on for Kovacic to play RM and Barnes on for Son to play LM.
---------------------------- Safonov ---------------------------
Aarons--------Ramos-------Lenglet--------Mendy
--------------,-Guendouzi--------Kante---------------------
Adama--------------------------------------------------Barnes
-------------------------------Bruno---------------------------------
---------------------------- Ronaldo -----------------------------
IF LOSING BY 65 MINS
Take off Kovacic and put on Harit in AM. Play close to each other and put a tonne of pressure in the oppo defence. Defend high up and try and score a goal. Swap Kante for Adama aswell.
----------------------------- Safonov ---------------------------
Aarons---------Lenglet-------Ramos--------Mendy
--------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------Goretzka ------- Bruno ----------------
------------------------------- Harit ------------------------------
------ Adama-----------Ronaldo------------Son -----------------
IF DRAWING BY 65MINS
DCL on for Son
Ndombele on for Kovacic
Harit on for Bruno
Fresh legs.
posted on 11/5/20
SOTON vs Pool
----------------------------------------Gunn-----------------------
Odriozola------Upamecano--------Kabak--------Chilwell
---------------------------Aouar---------Llorente--------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pulisic---------------------------------------------------------Rashford
------------------------------------Odegaard--------------------------------
-----------------------------------Richarlison-----------------------------------
Subs - Sarr, Demiral, SMS, Lo Celso, Nkunku, Kulusevski, Kean
CAPTAIN - UPAMECANO
CK'S - ØDEGAARD
FK'S - ØDEGAARD
PENALTIES - RASHFORD
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Upamecano and Kabak bring a lot of strength and pace to the defence. Upamecano will marshal the defence and Kabak will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Llorente will be covering for them when they go attacking.
Defence Mids
Llorente + Aouar
Llorente will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings but don't try any risky passes.
Aouar will look to pick the ball up from deep and use his pace and energy to dribble the ball out. Make runs forward and help our attacking players whenever you can. Play quick passes forward and use your agility to outmanoeuvre the oppo players. When not in possession of the ball I want him to sit alongside Llorente in the middle and protect the defence.
Wingers
Pulisic + Rashford
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Rashford will be looking to cut in from the left and Pulisic will be looking to get to the byline and whip in balls into the box. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of our fullbacks and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. Odriozola and Chilwell are no slouches attacking wise so use them! If you can cut in onto your stronger foot, don't be afraid to shoot from range as you both have the ability to score from long range. If there is no space to do so then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Richarlison to get his head on. Help our FB's in defensive duties if the oppo winger is trying to take them on. Track back and double up on him or mark the run of the opposition FB if they try to make an overlapping run. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack.
Attack Mid
Ødegaard
Ødegaard will be playing just behind Richarlison and will look to help him out in attack. Be ready for passes into your feet and shoot if you see an opportunity. Mix up your attacking runs to throw off the oppo DM. I want him to dribble with the ball and play 1 2's with the rest of the team. Shoot if you see an opening.
Striker
Richarlison
Richarlison is a striker that has the deadly combination of pace and power. He will look to use his strength to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Kulusevski for Aouar and SMS for Ødegaard to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212 and play the below formation. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
-----------------------------------------Gunn--------------------------------
Odriozola-------Upamecano-------------Kabak---------Chilwell
---------------------------------------Llorente---------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kulusevski-----------------------------------------------------------Pulisic
-----------------------------------------SMS-------------------------------
------------------------Rashford-----------Richarlison-------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Ødegaard and put on Demiral in CB. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Nkunku on for Pulisic and SMS for Aouar to add a bit more energy into the midfield.
----------------------------------Gunn--------------------------------
Odriozola-------Demiral------Upam------Kabak--------Chilwell
-----------------------------SMS--------Llorente---------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------Nkunku----------------------------------------------Rashford-------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------Richarlison-----------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Kulusevski on for Pulisic
SMS on for Ødegaard
Kean on for Richarlison
Fresh legs to bring on.
posted on 11/5/20
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
posted on 15/5/20
------------------ Courtois ------------------
Cancelo -- De Ligt --- Bonucci - Marcelo
---------- Busquets --- Verratti -----------
--- Sancho --- De Bruyne --- Hazard ----
--------------- Lewandowski ---------------
Subs:
Lunin, Todibo, Kehrer, R.Sanches, Eriksen, Asensio, Cavani
Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go with an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation today as we aim to lift the cup. We go with Hazard, De Bruyne & Sancho behind Lewandowski, offering a perfect blend of pace, trickery and unpredictability that will cause plenty of problems for their defence. We feel that this front four combined pose threats from all angles with plenty of goals in our lineup. We will look to dictate the play and take the game to the opposition. When they’re in possession we sit deep, our DM’s marshalling the middle of the park, breaking down the opposition and setting up us on the counter. We feel that we have the perfect set up to open them up on the counter with terrific pace out wide which will cause problems all afternoon for their fullbacks.
Whilst the opposition have some dangerous players we will look to significantly limit their impact by retaining possession, we will force them to track back or risk leaving their defence exposed when we push forward in numbers. We aim to make things uncomfortable for them and feel that limiting their ability to have the ball in attacking areas will severely limit any threat posed. When they are in possession our wingers drop in as we play a compact 4-5-1 formation.
Defence:
We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with pace and quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. If the opposition play one up top then Bonucci will mark. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. De Ligt will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top. The Dutchman sweeping up from the back and immediately looking to get us on the counter with his fantastic vision and passing.
Our fullbacks will stick tight to the wide men, safe in the knowledge that they have supporting cover in behind with Busquets also drifting across from DM to offer additional support. When in possession both Cancelo and Marcelo have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third. We look to draw the opposition onto us by sitting deep when they are in possession, limiting the space in behind and drawing them further up the field creating space for us to hit them on the counter.
Midfield:
Busquets will be our holding player in the middle. A top class DM we rely on his fantastic reading of the game to break up the opposition play, winning back possession and setting us up on the counter as we look to get the ball into our creative players as quickly as possible. He’ll pick up their most advanced AM and cut out their supply line. He’s also a fantastic passer which will be key in winning the midfield battle and ball retention. Alongside him we have the classy Verratti. A great passer and defensively strong he forms the perfect double pivot in front of our defence. He and Busquets will control that area of the field and look to physically impose themselves on the opposition, winning back possession and getting the ball into our attacking players as quickly as possible.
Completing our midfield we have the instrumental De Bruyne. He plays in the AM role and has free roam to push forward when in possession. A player with superb vision he will look to get on the ball as much as possible, running at the opposition drawing them in and committing a defender before playing that decisive ball. We look for him to play between the lines, dropping into pockets of space and supplying our forwards with Lewandowski ready to pounce at any moment.
He’s also a great goal scorer, perfectly capable of arriving late in the opposition box to finish or striking a thunderbolt from distance. If the opposition drop off he has license to go for goal at any opportunity.
Forward:
Up top we go with three heavy hitters which is enough to give any defence nightmares, creative geniuses Sancho and Hazard flanking the predator Lewandowski in the middle. In one on one situations Sancho and Hazard are devastating and both have license to go at the opposition. With a powerhouse frontline we go for goals, both wingers will look to cause problems, cutting inside and going direct for goal one moment and driving down the line, bamboozling the opposition before whipping the ball into the box the next. We look to draw in opposition players, freeing up our other forward to pounce with quick incisive passing in the final third
Lewandowski plays through the middle and will have a dream supply line around him. The brief is simple, get into the box and do what you do best. With the number of quality attackers we have around him Lewandowski could well find himself in one on one match ups in which he’s deadly. Play on the shoulder of the last man and as always be on your toes in the box, ready to pounce and finish anything that comes your way.
Subs;
If winning:
70 mins: Cancelo off, Kehrer on. Tighten up defensively as FB’s sit in with Kehrer adding extra protection.
80 mins: Sancho off, & Todibo on. Shut up shop time as we move to 5-4-1 as we see out the win.
If drawing:
65 mins: Verratti off, Eriksen on. Extra creativity as Eriksen plays as a twin AM next to KDB.
75 mins: Sancho off, Asensio on. Fresh legs and added goal threat as we push for the winner.
85 mins: Busquets off, Cavani on. Switch to 4-2-2-2 with Cavani & Lewandowski up top and Asensio & Hazard on the flanks. Goals.
If losing:
60 mins: Busquets off. Eriksen on.
70 mins: Cancelo off, Cavani on. All out attack as we look to turn the game around.
posted on 18/5/20
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
posted on 19/5/20
Attacking high press 3-5-2
We go with an attacking side, that is firstly solid at the back but more importantly gives us an athletic team to play at a high tempo and over power the Spurs midfield with pace and tenacity. We go with a side with a high work rate, full of energy to press from the front. The defence starts with the front two.
Our formation allows us to play quick flowing play but also go with two up top. The front two set the tempo for the game with their all action styles. Both have the ability to drop deep and join in the attacks. Bernardo the AM. We have three cms able to pick a pass, and with the ability to dictate the tempo of the game and control possession. Rodri plays as the dm, his tactical awareness being key in front of a strong back 3.
The width is provided by the wing backs, and by an over lapping cb. Stealing a Sheffield United tactic, we allow one cb to get forward at a time. Alaba/Militao overlapping the attacking wbs. This will see us always have two cbs and Rodri at dm in defence when we attack offering cover.
We will direct our attacks down the wings. Both wing backs will have freedom to attack, bombing down the wings and crossing for the front two. The overlapping cbs, wbs and AM with front two will give us an overload in attacking situations.
We defend in a narrow formation, limiting the space for Spurs to play in. The wingback on the opposite side of play will drop back into defence forming a back four. The wb on the side of play helps the cb on the side of play defend against the attacking winger and fb.
The defence and midfield press as a unit, ensuring there is no space between the lines for Spurs attacking mids. When defending, Rodri plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area. Pogba will play ball side of Rodri. Bernardo drops deep pressing the space next to Pogba and in front of Rodri and always press the passing lanes. Pogba will pick up the 2nd most attacking cm if they break forward. Dybala looks to exploit the space out wide by their attacking fb and Lautaro splits the space between their cbs.
When we win the ball we attack at pace. Use the wing backs bombing forward linking with the overlapping cb am and forwards.
----------—-—---- Neuer ------------------
----------------------------------------------
-------Militao -- Laporte --Alaba ----
----------------------------------------------
Carvajal ---- Rodri -- Pogba --- Mendy
----------------- Bernardo.S ---------------
------------------------------------------------
------------ Dybala ---- Lautaro.M -------
Subs. Schmeichel, Marquinhos, Thiago, Arthur, Dembele, Jesus, Lukaku
Defence
When we lose the ball high up the park we always look to win it back straight away, don’t give Spurs a chance to counter. The closest 2/3 players press. Allowing others to get back into position behind the ball. Neuer also guards against hopeful long balls over the top in his sweeper keeper role.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
When Spurs get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation set out above. Our defence have fantastic pace up against their forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Attack
We counter quickly when we win the ball aiming our attacks down the wings. If the counter is not on we look to get the wing backs and wide forwards doubling up on their fbs, with one of the strikers always helping.
The back 3 are all comfortable on the ball and look to play out, helping us move the ball quickly having a strong base. Neuer's accurate long balls will also help as we seek to counter quickly exposing space left by Spurs in attack.
Subs.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Thiago for Bernardo. More energy in cm. 3-5-2.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Jesus for Lautaro. Fresh pace to get at tired defences.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Lukaku for Dybala, powerful striker to bully tired Spurs.
If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Jesus for Mendy. 4-2-3-1. Jesus LW, Bernardo RW, Dybala begins Lautaro.
If drawing or losing after 75 mins bring on Thiago and Lukaku for Rodri and Lautaro.
posted on 19/5/20
Bournemouth Tactics: Europa League round 1
Captain: Felipe
Vice Captain: Fernandes
Team:
---------------------Ivan
Khellven--Felipe—Torres-----Lodi
-----------------Fernandes
---------Guimarães---Reinier
Antony---------------------------Tetê
------------------Vinícius
SUBS: Cleiton, Iago, Gabriel, Henrique, Pyerre, Kaio J, Cunha
We want to play a neat crisp passing game at high tempo using our obvious pace to punish the opponent. Our formation will be a 4-3-3 that will allow our full backs to join in the attack when necessary and also offer us the flexibility to fall back into a more standard 4-4-2 when under pressure. We need to boss the midfield from the start and control the game with our own tempo. When in possession use the ball well and try and bring our wide men in to play. When chasing the ball press the opponent with urgency and all over the park. Don’t take too many risks and hold onto the ball. With our creativity and pace we will be able to open teams up. Wait for the chances to arise and take them when they come.
Goalkeeper: Ivan is a big mobile keeper and very agile. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: Fernandes will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. Guimarães and Reinier will play just in front of Fernandes. Guimarães will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Reinier will be the midfield magician. Clever, elusive and tricky we will look to him for creating the midfield openings with his eye for a pass. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Antony and Tetê will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Reinier, Guimarães and Vinícius in to play. They can vary their attacks by going wide or cutting inside as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Guimarães may sit a bit deeper allowing Reinier to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF. As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Vinícius starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great big old fashioned centre forward. We will look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. An eye for a pass and not afraid to have a go from distance. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his power pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Reinier, Tetê or Antony with Felipe, Torres, Fernandes and Vinícius to offer an aerial threat. Reinier and Tetê (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Vinícius
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Gabriel for Torres, Cunha for Vinícius and Pyerre for Guimarães, 3 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 80 minutes) Kaio J for Guimarães and Cunha for Antony. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Cunha and Kaio J offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
-----------Fernandes
Kaio J---Reinier----Tetê
--------Vinícius---Cunha
posted on 24/5/20
----------------- De Gea ------------------
Pavard -- Skriniar -- Hummels -- Theo
------- B.Soumare -- Pjanic ------------
Mahrez -------- Ziyech -------- M.Diaby
----------------- Haaland -----------------
Subs:
Muric, Stones, Martinez, B.Diaz, L.Bailey, Reus, Leao
We set up with a strong side suited to playing counter attacking football in a 4-2-3-1 formation. We expect the opposition to look to dominate possession which will suit our strengths perfectly. When they’re in possession our wingers drop in as we revert to a 4-5-1 formation, as soon as we win back possession we look to break at speed with our devastating front 3 and hit them on the counter.
Skriniar is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, both centre backs will stay back with either one of the full backs or the DM always prepared to make it a back 3 when we lose possession to stop counter attacks, Both CB’s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball to the front 3 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.
For the full backs today the objective is to sit back and tuck in slightly when defending, looking to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly and launching an attack of our own. Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who they go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.
The focus of the midfield 3 will be to use their experience and high technical ability, working in collaboration with the front 3 to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use the movement of the other CM's and the front 3 to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 all flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back. Ziyech will look to dictate the play and always looking for that killer ball into our forwards.
Our front three are blessed with pace and goals. Our team will sit deep to neutralise the threat of the opposition getting in behind. This naturally means that the opposition will push higher up the field which will leave ample space for us to get in behind. We look to get in behind at all opportunities. Get the ball out wide to Mahrez or Diaby to break at speed or Ziyech to go through the middle as we look to supply our lethal finisher up top. Haaland will look to play on the shoulder of the last man, look to use his physic to get in behind and his ice cold finishing should he get played through on goal. He’ll be surrounded with have pace and creativity all around him so if the opposition drop off we look to push our wide players push up alongside Haaland giving us an attacking front three. We play a fast counter attacking brand of football and look to go for goals.
Subs;
If winning:
70 mins: Mahrez off, Bailey on. Extra pace on the counter.
80 mins: Pjanic off, Stones on. 5-4-1 shut up shop time as we tighten up with a solid defensive unit as we see the game out and take the win.
If drawing:
65 mins: Diaby off, Bailey on. Fresh legs and extra energy.
75 mins: Ziyech off, Reus on. Switch to 4-2-2-2 with two up top.
If losing:
60 mins: Pjanic off, Bailey on.
70 mins: Theo off, Reus on. 3-4-3 all out attack
posted on 24/5/20
------------------ Courtois -----------------
-----------------------------------------------
Bellerin -- De Ligt -- Bonucci - Marcelo
-----------------------------------------------
-- De Bruyne -- Busquets -- Eriksen ----
-----------------------------------------------
--- Sancho -- Lewandowski -- Hazard --
Subs:
Lunin, Konate, R.Sanches, Bale, Asensio, Cavani, Icardi
Captain: Bonucci
Free Kicks: De Bruyne/Hazard
Penalties: Lewandowski
Corners: Wingers
Tactics:
Moving the ball at speed will be the focus of our play as we go for the win. We go with an attacking 4-3-3 as we look to play on the front foot and feel this with match up well if our opponents play their usual 3 at the back formation. We defend in numbers and look to hit them with fast direct counter attacking football. Our playmakers ready to pounce and feed our exciting front three as the opposition leave themselves exposed when pushing men football as we look punish them on the break.
Whilst the opposition have some dangerous players we will look to significantly limit their impact by retaining possession, we will force them to track back or risk leaving their defence exposed when we push forward in numbers. We aim to make things uncomfortable for them and limit any space for them to play in the final third, severely hampering their normal style of football. When they are in possession our wingers drop in as we play a compact 4-5-1 formation.
We look to draw the opposition onto us by sitting deep, limiting the space in behind us and drawing them further up the field creating space for us to hit them on the counter.
Defence:
We go with a strong defensive unit at the back, packed with pace and quality as we look to nullify the threat posed by the oppositions attack. Bonucci be the leader and pick up their main striker. Strong, aggressive and a great reader of the game we feel he has all the tools to deal with any opponent. De Ligt will act as cover, sweeping up and offering cover in behind to eliminate any balls over the top. The Dutchman sweeping up from the back and immediately looking to get us on the counter with his fantastic vision and passing.
Our fullbacks will look to sit in, forming a solid defensive unit and giving the opposition no space to operate. If they play two up top our FB's will narrow, offering additional cover in behind the CB's.
Offensively both Bellerin and Marcelo have license to push forward, overlapping our wingers we look to outnumber them on the flanks, creating 2 v 1 scenarios which will give us opportunities to get in behind with both FB’s having great quality in the final third.
Midfield:
We go with a three man midfield, packed with quality and experience we look to dominate and take the game to our opponents. Busquets will be our holding player in the middle and operate as a DM. A fantastic reading of the game he will look to break up the opposition play, winning back possession and setting us up on the counter as we look to get the ball into our creative players as quickly as possible. He’ll pick up their most advanced AM and cut out their supply line. He’s also a fantastic passer which will be key in winning the midfield battle and ball retention.
De Bruyne and Eriksen will be our magic men in the middle, acting as our creators in chief we look to get them on the ball as much as possible. With Busquets acting as an anchor they have freedom to get forward and pick apart the opposition. Short sharp passing will pull the opposition apart with both players capable of playing that killer pass in the final third. We want them to look for our forwards early, pinging the ball in behind for our front three to get onto as we look to hit them on the break.
Sancho & Hazard will also look drift in between the lines giving us an extra link up and creating a numerical advantage in midfield. Our gameplan is based on creating an overload in key areas, forcing the opposition to abandon their shape as they desperately scamper to cover the free man however in doing so they will be pulled out of shape and leaving gaps in their defence for our attackers to exploit.
Forwards:
Up top we go with three heavy hitters which is enough to give any defence nightmares, dangermen Sancho and Hazard flanking the predator Lewandowski in the middle. In one on one situations Sancho and Hazard are devastating and both have license to go at the opposition. With a powerhouse frontline we go for goals, both wingers will look to cause problems, cutting inside and going direct for goal one moment and driving down the line, bamboozling the opposition before whipping the ball into the box the next. We look to draw in opposition players, freeing up our other forward to pounce with quick incisive passing in the final third
Lewandowski plays through the middle and will have a dream supply line around him. The brief is simple, get into the box and do what you do best. With the number of quality attackers we have around him Lewandowski could well find himself in one on one match ups in which he’s deadly. Play on the shoulder of the last man and as always be on your toes in the box, ready to pounce and finish anything that comes your way.
Subs;
If winning:
70 mins: Eriksen off, Sanches on. Fresh legs as we keep our energy levels high.
80 mins: Sancho off, Konate on. Shut up shop time as we move to a compact 5-4-1 formation as we see the game out to take the win.
If drawing:
75 mins: Sancho off, Asensio on. Fresh legs and pace as we look to exploit a tiring defence.
85 mins: Eriksen off, Icardi on. 4-2-2-2 with Lewandowski & Icardi up top and Asensio & Hazard on the flanks. Goals.
If losing:
70 mins: Eriksen off, Asensio on. Hazard moves to AM creating an attacker trio alongside Sancho and Asensio with KDB pulling the strings behind.
80 mins: Bellerin off, Icardi on. We bring on an additional forward as we turn the screw and go for goals.
posted on 24/5/20
---------------------- Ter Stegen ----------------------
Mukiele ----- Boateng ----- Kamara ----- Chilwell
----------------- Partey ----- Barella -----------------
F.Chiesa ------------------------------------- Sterling
------------------ H.Kane -- J.David -----------------
Pope, Manolas, Rabiot, Nkunku, Foden, Malen, Ilicic
Control possession high up the field, pass and move into positions that can hurt them, when we defend we do so as a team with two banks of four with David & Kane harassing their backline and really pressurise them into quick , misplaced passes for us to pick up, in their face performance, especially Partey and Barella and the front four further up the pitch as we try to nullify their midfield and stop them creating chances for the forwards.
Mukiele and Chilwell have freedom to attack, but only one at a time, one will stay back creating a back 3 when we attack, bomb down the line supporting the wingers on the outside, which will allow the winger to cut inside and support the forwards. They look to play one twos with the midfield which will get him beyond there fullback and whip in dangerous crosses. Both tough defenders and intelligent so know when to tackle and when just to try and shimmy out wide. When defending and on the cautious side and remain vigilant at all times in the line of four, keep it tight.. Boateng will mark the CF, use his strength and speed to keep the CF away from the danger area. Kamara alongside is the spare defender and helps out where needed, both powerful defenders, Both will dominate in the air and both good on the ball, so when in possession they can carry the ball out from defence and look to send our forwards away. Stay tight as a four and let nothing through. Both cbs up for corners, fullbacks stay back and a midfielder just sitting in front of them. When we are in possession the ball will come from the back, so these guys must look for movement ahead of them so they can pick there pass, both CBs are comfortable with ball at feet and will take the ball out of defence to allow them to come on to us before he passes, this will create space as hew will force them to break away from the players they are marking..
Partey's primary role in front of the defence is to win possession and then start an attacking phase. Within this he needs to cover spaces in between the midfield and defence where the opposition’s number 10 will likely to be operating whilst also being aware when the full-backs had pushed forward.Take care of of the No 10/SS is also a main focus, he isn't an out an out DM but he has a lot of grit and determination to his game so stick to him like glue and stop him becoming a threat, very good in the air so can attack long/high balls before they get to our defenders. Once he is in possession of the ball nice simple balls to those around him.
Barella and has responsibility throughout the pitch. He is expected to score goals and create chances for team mates, whilst also helping in the defensive third. One requirement of this role are high fitness levels due to the amount of running they are expected to do and he does a lot. The box-to-box midfielder is more likely to be found on the side of the pitch where the full-back that is less efficient in the attacking third plays to provide balance on both flanks, he also has a mean shot from distance and isn't afraid to have a pop.
Wingers are going to cause problems out wide, with the support they will have, they will look to push the fullbacks back and get into the danger area, I want them to drive on the outside and play as a natural winger not an inside forward unless supported by fullbacks. both sides will definitely pose a threat with quick one twos. Use the midfield to play around them with the ball going in triangles quickly until the break is on. If fullbacks drive passed wingers they can cut inside looking to make a nuisance of themselves centrally again using David and Kane to get into danger areas. Both wingers have fantastic forwards to aim for in Kane & David so if they get to the bye line then get the crosses in for him to attack. We go with a front two today, we need goals these two will get plenty chances, however they must put away. I want them to bully the slower/weaker of the two/three. Get into positions that they can go for goal or at very least drag players away for other players to drive into the space. Again, target the slower/weaker of the cbs, split them apart to create space, we are quick, so our forwards must hit them with pace to drag them all over the place. They can score from various angles/ranges even dropping back and from distance, with hopefully a few crosses coming in they can get up and above defenders for. Can both hold it up and look for runners, in particular Sterling and Chiesa will be making runs so be watchful of them just to lay it off to the side for each other if they cant go themselves. When we defend I want one dropping back to take care of the DM and make an extra man in there so we are not over powered in the middle.
We must defend as a team tho, 4-4-1-1 with David dropping back, everyone hot on the tails of the opposition, we cant give away cheap goals,so wingers track back and cover the fullbacks, even just to stop them supporting the wingers, we must drive into them and presurize them into mistakes
Captain - Partey
Pens - Kane
Free Kicks - J.David
Corners - Wingers
Subs
Losing
65 Mins - Malen for Chiesa
75 Mins - Ilicic for Chiwell, he goes up top, David to No.10 3-4-1-2, Rabiot for Barella same time
WInning
75 Mins - Rabiot for David and into a 3 man midfield, Malen for Chiesa
Drawing
65 Mins - Malen for Chiesa, Rabiot for Barella, Ilicic for David
posted on 24/5/20
------------------------- Oblak -------------------------
Bissaka ------ Tapsoba ------ Lenglet ------ Gosens
------------- F. de Jong ------ F.Valverde ------------
Mbappe ------------ Greenwood ------------ Neymar
------------------------- Werner ------------------------
Lafont, van Dijk, Locatelli, Tielemans, Ferran, Neres, Dembele
Our game is based solely on possession football, quick on the break and really pressurise the opposition with an in your face performance from the front, we want to hit them quickly so we need to press them quickly to get the ball, when we defend, the back 4 must stay solid with Valverde and de Jong ahead of them just in front harassing the man with the ball before they get to our back 4 and our midfield will be in and around the half way line, Greenwood slightly higher up, this will congest the midfield and allow us to dictate play, defend from the front, stop them coming forward from the back, however, if they do push forward onto us and we get the ball they will be on the back foot and will really struggle with our front 3/4 with Fullbacks who are always ready to pounce and hit them with pace.
Tapsoba picks up the CF not much gets passed him, Lenglet spare picks up the AM if he gets away from our midfield, keep the forward(s) away from the danger area, get onto them quickly, take the ball away from them and play it out of defence, look to get it out wide quickly, Both are comfortable on the ball so can bring it out when in no danger and look for the pass longer to the forwards to hit them with pace, both must attack high balls to get the ball away from the opposition big men. Fullbacks keep the wingers quiet, stop their attacks Keep them away from shooting areas and stop them becoming dangerous in any position by standing tall against them and keeping them on there 'bad' foot. When they attack, only one at a time, they drive down the line in support of the wingers drive on the outside making an extra man. If either get caught up field I want Valverde & de Jong to drift to the side and this allows the fullbacks to make their way to midfield to cover. CB's to go up for corners, with the fullbacks and de Jong sitting back.
de Jong our deepest midfielder sitting just in front of the CB's he will shadow there AM and not allow him to control the game, must be aware of all that is around him, be in the right place at the right time and look to cover for defensive players moving forward, he has to impose himself early on the AM to make him wary of holding onto the ball too long, once on the ball look around, head up and pick the pass that will get us moving forward quickly always making himself for a return ball from a deeper angle as he spreads it from side to side then eventually forward he is always looking for the ball to start again if need be, can be out to the fullbacks or indeed a longer ball to the front three to take the opposition out of it as they are still high up the pitch. Valverde will help stop the run of play quicker to make our defenders jobs a lot easier, protect our defence as best as possible, in possession get it to the front 3 but also look for fullbacks and Greenwood as they move into space, keep it simple, he has a very good range of pass. Either pass and move(triangles) into space or look for a piercing through ball to our front three to drive onto.Can move forward to assist and look for balls coming out so he can either, shoot or whip straight back in. Greenwood is essential to our style of play, he is the link between defence and attack, as we break quickly he will look to set up our front three and at times be in an advanced No.10/SS role and look for the de jong/Valverde/CB pass. He will drop back at times to pick it up and will look to his dribbling capabilities to get him around players, sometimes taking a foul as he is a tricky player to mark. When in possession always head up looking for the movement of our front three to play them in, he will follow his pass and make up the numbers up front and Join Werner and co looking for goals When he doesn't drop deep i.e when the defenders go long, he will look to form a front four as they move around and look to tear the defence apart and create space for the front 3 and support them as best he can. All of our midfield three must press the opposition and get to grips with this game very early on.
Our wingers are extremely quick, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as they attack, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, when they do lose the ball we charge at them and we do it quickly, either a long ball over defenders our defenders are superb long ball passers, go through the cms or out to one of our attacking fullbacks.however, the movement up front between Mbappe and Neymar will cause them problems drifting in an out, thus allowing Greenwood to pick his moment to move into space either as a 10 or out wide. If he does push wide this will allow Mbappe/Neymar to go in central as we will have an attacking fullback up and supporting. Quick passing in triangles that will get us in and beyond their defenders and eventually to Martial who can beat any defender with power and pace and the other wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if there defence is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks into Werner who will sit on the last foot so he can spring them and have a shoot or sight mentality, can move central, we must always make sure he is well supported, if he cant get the shot away he will be looking to bring others into the game by dropping slightly back to get numbers for the attack he is a very tireless worker, who also helps defend from the from by harassing there back line/DM.
Captain - de Jong
Penalties - Neymar
Free Kicks - Neymar (when going for goal) otherwise de Jong
Corners - Wingers
Subs -
Losing -
65 Mins we go 4-4-2 with Dembele on for Greenwood
75 Mins - Bissaka to RCB, Ferran on for Gosens and to RW, Mbappe-Dembele-Werner up top very attcking 3-4-3
Winning -
75 Mins - Locatelli for Greenwood and he sits in behind the two CMs to shore it up
83 Mins - Dembele for Werner
Drawing -
65 Mins - Ferran for Greenwood, Mbappe up front with Werner, Ferran to RW, 4-4-2
75 Mins - Dembele for Werner
posted on 25/5/20
Comment deleted by Site Moderator
posted on 25/5/20
Bournemouth v NORWICH CITY
Ramsdale
Vrsaljko, Caleta-Car, Ajer, Justin
Gueye, Koopmeiners
Bowen, Brooks, Saint-Maximin
Suárez
Subs: Milenkovic, Tanganga, Domínguez, Nández, Traoré, Cantwell, Vlahovic
Free Kicks & Pens – Koopmeiners
Our defensive unit consists of Duje Caleta-Car and Kristoffer Ajer paired up at centre-back, Sime Vrsaljko at right-back and James Justin at left-back, with Teun Koopmeiners and Idrissa Gueye as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Koopmeiners and Gueye we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Gueye can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Koopmeiners can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Gueye's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Gueye running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Teun Koopmeiners.
Koopmeiners is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Koopmeiners such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of Jarrod Bowen, David Brooks and Allan Saint-Maximin as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Koopmeiners or Gueye, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Vrsaljko and Justin can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Koopmeiners and Gueye can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both Jarrod Bowen and Saint-Maximin, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. David Brooks our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Brooks is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer with his one-touch passing and quick flicks, and who will combine exceptionally well with Bowen, Saint-Maximin & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.
Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Bowen, Brooks & Saint-Maximin to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.
Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suarez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.
All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.
Subs on 75 mins
Traoré on for Bowen and Cantwell on for Saint-Maximin
Double substitution - Lots of energy and pace in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line
posted on 25/5/20
PORTSMOUTH vs pool
------------------------------Nubel ---------------------------
Aarons---------Ramos---------De Vrij-----------F Mendy
------------------------------- Kante ------------------------------------
--------------Kovacic ---------------- Goretzka ----------------------
--------------------------------- Fekir -----------------------------------
------------------ Son ------------------- Isak -----------------
Subs - Romagnoli, Guendouzi, Ndombele, Adama, Barnes, Harit, Abraham
CAPTAIN - RAMOS
CK'S - FEKIR
FK'S - FEKIR
PENALTIES - FEKIR
When we don't have possession of the ball in our half I want the whole team except the strikers to get in our half and defend. Play a deep defensive line so that oppo can't use their pacy forwards to beat the offside trap. When we win possession of the ball I want the players to keep hold of possession and try and work some space. We have good ball players in the centre and they will help keep us ticking.
Defence
Nubel in net, command your box and don't do anything flashy. De Vrij and Ramos bring experience to the backline. Ramos will focus on marking the oppo striker and will look to stick close to him and to watch out for his attacking runs. Stay aggressive and not let him turn you. De Vrij will mark the other striker if the oppo is playing 2 up front or to watch out any attacking runs of their AM if they play him instead.
Full backs
Aarons + Mendy
Aarons and Mendy will look to help both in attack and defence. Make forays forward when we have the ball in the oppos side of the pitch but track back when we don't. Get some crosses into the box as Isak is very good in the air. Kante will be covering for you if you are out of position
Defence Mid
N'golo Kante
Kante will be tasked with protecting the defence. A true definition of never say die attitude he will be running all game and doing what he does best and win the ball off of the oppo. Cover for our fullbacks when they overlap and are out of position. Stick close to the oppo AM/their most attacking midfielder and pressure him as soon as he gets the ball. He will not be able to handle your relentless pressing. When you have possession of the ball quickly pass it to either Ndombele/Goretzka.
Centre Mids
Goretzka + Kovacic
Kovacic will be the more defensive of the two as I want him to focus on being the link from defence to attack. Main job is to get the ball from deep and to use your pace and technical ability to open up the oppo midfield. Goretzka will play a b2b role. Make runs forward and play pass and move passes with teammates and help the attack whenever you can. Make late runs into the box to try and score.
Attack Mid
Nabil Fekir
Fekir will be playing as the AM today. I want him to use his great dribbling ability and passing to create chances for our 2 strikers up front. Look out for the runs of our attackers and make runs into the box whenever you can. Shoot from range if you see an opportunity.
Strikers
Son + Isak
I want both the strikers to use their pace and play off of the oppo shoulders and try and beat the offside trap. Be aware of lofted through balls and time your runs as best as you can. When in the box use your quickness and agility to get into good positions away from oppo defenders. Play quick one two's with each other to penetrate the oppo defence. I want Isak to stay upfront and just focus on attacking, being ready for penetrating passes from his teammates. Be aware of crosses into the box and use your superhuman athletic ability to outjump the oppo defenders.
IF WINNING BY 65 MINS
Change formation to 4231. Play deep and hit the oppo on the counter.
Take off Goretzka and put on Guendouzi in DM next to Kante to give the defence even more protection. Adama on for Kovacic to play RM and Barnes on for Son to play LM.
---------------------------- Nubel ---------------------------
Aarons--------Ramos-------De Vrij--------Mendy
--------------,-Guendouzi--------Kante---------------------
Adama--------------------------------------------------Barnes
-------------------------------Fekir---------------------------------
------------------------------- Isak -----------------------------
IF LOSING BY 65 MINS
Take off Kovacic and put on Harit in CM. Play close to each other and put a tonne of pressure in the oppo defence. Defend high up and try and score a goal. Swap Kante for Adama aswell.
----------------------------- Nubel ---------------------------
Aarons---------De Vrij-------Ramos--------Mendy
--------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------Goretzka ------- Harit ----------------
------------------------------- Fekir ------------------------------
------ Adama--------------Isak------------Son -----------------
IF DRAWING BY 65MINS
Abraham on for Son
Ndombele on for Kovacic
Harit on for Fekir
Fresh legs.
posted on 25/5/20
SOTON VS Arsenal
----------------------------------------Gunn-----------------------
Odriozola------Upamecano--------Kabak--------Shaw
---------------------------Lo Celso---------Llorente--------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pulisic---------------------------------------------------------Richarlison
------------------------------------Odegaard--------------------------------
---------------------------------------J Felix-----------------------------------
Subs - M Sarr, Demiral, SMS, McTominay, Kluivert, Kulusevski, Kean
CAPTAIN - UPAMECANO
CK'S - ØDEGAARD
FK'S - ØDEGAARD
PENALTIES - FELIX
I want us to hold a deep defensive line to start of with so the oppo don't get an early goal. Keep things simple in the beginning and only pressure the oppo when they get in our half. When we have the ball I want the team to play pass and move football. Don't stay static, try and get in behind the oppo defence as there is a lot of pace in our attacking players. As the game goes on, when we don't have the ball I want the team to defend from the front line and pressure the oppo and try and win possession back. Do this in fits and bursts as it is a tiring tactic.
Defence
GK to be confident in box. Don't take risks. Punch the ball away if the shot is too powerful. Command your area. The defence is well balanced. Upamecano and Kabak bring a lot of strength and pace to the defence. Upamecano will marshal the defence and Kabak will look to use his pace to close the oppo strikers down. Stay vocal with each other and cover for each other if oppo gets past one of you. Full backs will start of with a conservative mind set and not attack too much but as the game goes on I want them to make overlapping runs and get some crosses in to the box. Llorente will be covering for them when they go attacking.
Defence Mids
Llorente + Lo Celso
Llorente will be the anchor in the middle. Stay back in front of the defence and protect the defence with your life. If the oppo play an AM then stick close to him and mark him if possible. When our fullbacks are attacking then your main priority will be to cover for them. When in possession pass the ball out to the wings but don't try any risky passes.
Lo Celso will look to pick the ball up from deep and use his pace and energy to dribble the ball out. Make runs forward and help our attacking players whenever you can. Play quick passes forward and use your agility to outmanoeuvre the oppo players. When not in possession of the ball I want him to sit alongside Llorente in the middle and protect the defence.
Wingers
Pulisic + Richarlison
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack. Richarlison will be looking to cut in from the left and Pulisic will be looking to get to the byline and whip in balls into the box. I want you both to try and beat the oppo fullbacks with your pace and dribbling ability but don't try too hard as if you see them doubling up on you you can either pass back or into the centre of the pitch to one of our CM's. I want you both to be aware of our fullbacks and play pass and move 1 2's with them to try and penetrate the oppo back line. Odriozola and Shaw are no slouches attacking wise so use them! If you can cut in onto your stronger foot, don't be afraid to shoot from range as you both have the ability to score from long range. If there is no space to do so then take the ball to the byline and whip in crosses for Richarlison to get his head on. Help our FB's in defensive duties if the oppo winger is trying to take them on. Track back and double up on him or mark the run of the opposition FB if they try to make an overlapping run. When we are defending corners I want both of them to stay near the halfway line so we can hit the oppo on the counter attack.
Attack Mid
Ødegaard
Ødegaard will be playing just behind Richarlison and will look to help him out in attack. Be ready for passes into your feet and shoot if you see an opportunity. Mix up your attacking runs to throw off the oppo DM. I want him to dribble with the ball and play 1 2's with the rest of the team. Shoot if you see an opening.
Striker
Joao Felix
Felix is a striker that has the deadly combination of pace and finishing. He will look to use his pace to get the better of the oppo defence. Be vary of crosses into the box as you are decent in the air, and if you are through on goal, use your expert finishing to score. Time your runs off the shoulders of the oppo CB's and use your pace to get away from them. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to fund spaces in the oppo defence.
Subs if LOSING BY 65MINS
Put on Kulusevski for Lo Celso and SMS for Ødegaard to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and try and get a goal. Change formation to 41212 and play the below formation. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
-----------------------------------------Gunn--------------------------------
Odriozola-------Upamecano-------------Kabak---------Shaw
---------------------------------------Llorente---------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kulusevski-----------------------------------------------------------Pulisic
-----------------------------------------SMS-------------------------------
------------------------------Felix-----------Richarlison-------------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Ødegaard and put on Demiral in CB. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack. Kulusevskion for Pulisic and SMS for Lo Celso to add a bit more energy into the midfield.
----------------------------------Gunn--------------------------------
Odriozola-------Demiral------Upam------Kabak--------Shaw
-----------------------------SMS--------Llorente---------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------Kulusevski---------------------------------------Richarlison-------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------Felix-----------------------------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Kulusevski on for Pulisic
SMS on for Ødegaard
Kluivert on for Richarlison
Fresh legs to bring on.
posted on 28/5/20
Bournemouth (4-3-3) Europa League Round 2
Captain : Gabriel
Vice Captain : Cleiton
-------------------Cleiton
Emerson--Felipe--Gabriel----Lodi
------Guimarães----Henrique
-----------------Reinier
Antony--------------------------Pepê
----------------Vinícius
SUBS: Peacock, Iago, Murilo, Assunção, Tetê, Kaio, Cunha
SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Guimarães) who will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Henrique). In front of them Reinier will operate as the link between midfield and attack. This I feel will give us a better balanced midfield and while being absolutely defensively sound with 2 ‘sitting’ Henrique will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Reinier and attack. I think this set-up lets us link up quickly with our attack while at the same time that little bit of extra cautiousness means it will be easy for us to close the door in midfield with all 3 players as comfortable sitting and breaking up attacks if necessary.
We want to play a nice tidy and crisp passing game. Our aim is to move the ball forward as quickly and as effectively as possible. When we have the ball we will use it wisely and when we don’t have the ball then we will press our opponents all over the park with high urgency to win it back. We want to keep the ball on the deck and attack as a team and equally as important defend as a team. This team is bursting with pace. We will utilise that to our advantage and make the pitch wide and use our flying wingers to cause all sorts of mayhem. It will also be a tool that we use to hit opponents on the counter where we know we can out pace any team.
Goalkeeper: Cleiton is a big mobile keeper and very agile. A great shot stopper, he will communicate with the back 4 and be commanding with the high ball. He will not take any risks. He is a great distributor with both hand and foot and we will look to this as a way to launch quick attacks.
Defence: Our 2 full backs are there firstly to defend and make sure they stay on the right side of their opponents whether they be out wide or cutting inside. When we are on the attack they will be allowed to use their power and pace to provide the overlap on the flanks. They both have the power and the lungs to work the touchline for 90 minutes. They will make the pitch wide and always offer themselves as an option in attack. Our 2 centre halves are big 6 feet plus ball playing defenders. Both good in the air and equally as good with the ball at their feet. They will be asked to do the simple things well. Be aggressive but controlled in the tackle and never lose your man when defending dead ball situations. They will be able to bring the ball out of defence but if in doubt take absolutely no chances and clear it. Both big men will be a real aerial threat at set pieces.
Midfield: We will operate with one holding/defensive midfielder (Guimarães). He will be the midfield general. A physical pacey midfielder he will be there to boss this area for us. Breaking up play and filling in as an extra defender if one of our back 4 has ventured forward. He will be there to protect the defence and do a lot of the unseen dirty work in the centre of the park. He is essential to our game plan and while sitting deep will still offer a lot with his great passing ability. He also has a thunderbolt right foot. He will be complimented with a deep sitting box to box midfielder (Henrique). He has a more conservative role this week and while being a little more constrained than normal he will still have the opportunity to bomb forward when the time is right. They will both have to put a defensive shift in and both are very strong in the tackle. We will look at their enthusiasm and relentless pressing of the opposition as a way to hopefully get a bit of a grip on the midfield and at the very least not make it plain sailing for the opposition. In front of them Reinier will operate as the link between midfield and attack.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Antony and Pepê will be expected to go for the direct approach and use their power and speed to take on the opposition defence and beat them and bring Reinier, Henrique and Vinícius in to play. They can vary their attacks as they see fit. Both players can play all across the middle so don’t be surprised to see them swapping wings. At times Henrique may sit a bit deeper allowing Reinier to slot in between both wingers, just behind the CF.
As well as an attacking force both wingers will also have to put a defensive shift when called upon and act as back up for their respective full backs.
Vinícius starts as the CF. He won’t be short of support or ammunition with the attacking talent behind him. Great playing off the shoulder of the last man he is deadly in and around the box. A bag of energy and very strong we will also look for him to hold up and bring others in to play if it doesn’t seem to be on for him. We will look to get bodies in the box when attacking so he should always have an outlet. He is also great in the air and will provide an option from set pieces. When the shot is on he will take it but we also want to put himself about in the box and think that his lightning pace will be a real handful for defences. He will also be alert to any scraps in and around the goal. He has the ability to produce something sublime and create a chance out of nothing.
Free Kicks/Corners: Reinier, Pepê or Antony with Felipe, Gabriel, Guimarães and Vinícius to offer an aerial threat. Reinier and Pepê (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Substitutions: (75 mins) If winning (and comfortable) then 3 like for like subs – Murilo for Felipe, Assunção for Guimarães and Cunha for Vinícius.
If losing (70 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Henrique with Cunha and Antony with Kaio. Fresh legs and 2 attackers that carry a goal threat about them. We will look to their pace and freshness to offer us something different.
----------Guimarães
Kaio------Reinier-----Pepê
----------Cunha -----Vinícius
posted on 28/5/20
Comment deleted by Article Creator
posted on 28/5/20
--------------------- De Gea -----------------------
-------- Pavard --- Skriniar --- Hummels -------
Meunier --- Torreira --- McKennie --- B.Mendy
--------- R.Mahrez ---------- H.Ziyech -----------
--------------------- T.Werner ----------------------
Subs:
Muric, Bailly, Soumare, B.Diaz, Bailey, Leao, Lacazette
We set up with a strong side suited to playing counter attacking football in a 3-4-2-1 formation. We expect to dominate possession and fast expansive football will suit our strengths perfectly. When they’re in possession our wingers drop in as we revert to a 5-4-1 formation, as soon as we win back possession we look to break at speed with our devastating front 3 hitting them on the counter.
Defence:
Skriniar is the defensive leader and will be the one to set the defensive line on the pitch, all three centre backs will stay back ensuring we are always prepared with a strong back 3 if we lose possession to stop counter attacks, The CB’s will communicate with each other so they are clear in where the attacking threats are. When dealing with the opposition, we will avoid slide tackles unless necessary instead looking to just guide players off the ball. When on the ball, if the opposition are giving them space to come out with the ball, then they should take it forward, if not, keep it simple with the occasional long ball to the front 2 thrown in to keep the opposition from setting up against one style of play.
For the wings backs today the objective is to get forward, hugging the touch line and whipping balls in for our forwards to attack. Defensively they will look to stop balls being played between them and the centre backs, with the secondary advantage of discouraging the wide men from cutting inside, forcing them to cross, which gives us a better chance of getting the ball back quickly and launching an attack of our own. Their objective when attacking will be to keep making runs past the winger on both the inside and outside, giving the opposition full back that split second of indecision on who they go with. They will only occasionally put floated crosses in, preferring to either play shorter passes to the wingers or players who have come out from the middle of the pitch to keep possession and let the pressure build up in the final third, or run to the byline and put in fast and low crosses relying on both the faster reactions and control of our attackers and the pressure of the situation on their centre backs to hastily clear the ball without being in full control of the situation.
Midfield:
The focus of the midfield 2 will be to use their high energy and technical ability working in collaboration with the front 3 and wingbacks to control the midfield battle whilst still having the attacking nous to create chances for us. When we are in the attacking third, they will always be looking to make themselves available for a pass to keep recycling the ball, keeping the pressure up with us looking to use this movement to drag the opposition defensive players that little bit more which could be the difference in getting a player behind them. They also all have an eye for a pass so will look to take advantage of the front 3 flitting around and play them in with through balls and quick one touch play. We will also occasionally take the occasional long shot, with the aim being to make sure defenders aren't content to sit back and forcing them to make a decision. When defending, they are looking to press the middle third of the pitch, pressing the opposition CMs/Wingers in conjunction with other players as they are on the ball to rush their decisions and win the ball back.
Forwards:
Our front three are blessed with pace and goals. Our team will sit deep to neutralise the threat of the opposition getting in behind. This naturally means that the opposition will push higher up the field which will leave ample space for us to get in behind. We look to get in behind at all opportunities. Get the ball out wide to Mahrez or Ziyech as we look to supply our lethal finisher up top. Werner will look to play on the shoulder of the last man, look to use his physic to get in behind and his ice cold finishing should he get played through on goal. He’ll be surrounded with have pace and creativity all around him so if the opposition drop off we look to push our wide players push up alongside Werner giving us an attacking front three. We play a fast counter attacking brand of football and look to go for goals.
Subs;
If winning:
65 mins: McKennie off, Soumare on.
75 mins: Mahrez off, L.Bailey on. Pace to finish them off on the counter.
If drawing:
70 mins: Mahrez and McKennie off, L.Bailey + Brahim on. Ziyech slots into CM whilst Bailey and Brahim flank Haaland.
If losing:
70 mins: McKennie and Hummels off, Brahim and Lacazette on. Attacking 4-2-2-2 as we go for goals.
posted on 30/5/20
NORWICH CITY v Arsenal
Woodman
Vrsaljko, Caleta-Car, Ajer, Grimaldo
Brozovic, Nández
Brooks, Fornals, Cantwell
Suárez
Subs: Justin, Tanganga, Rodon, Lewis, Koopmeiners, Bowen, Brewster
Our defensive unit consists of Duje Caleta-Car and Kristoffer Ajer paired up at centre-back, Sime Vrsaljko at right-back and Alejandro Grimaldo at left-back, with Marcelo Brozovic and Nahitan Nández as our midfield ‘double pivot’ screening them.
This ‘double pivot’ is the key to our team and in Brozovic and Nández we have a perfect pairing to initiate attacks by distributing the ball in an intelligent fashion, to be key players in circulation and to prevent dangerous opposition attacks, being disciplined in positioning and limiting space in between the lines.
The strength of our double pivot is that Nández can press the ball without leaving lots of space, as Brozovic can maintain a good position to react if the initial press is bypassed. Our double pivot will offer huge defensive stability and will ensure that a structured shape is maintained.
Having two defensive midfielders centrally prevents others being dragged out of position to press.
Helping the defenders maintain solid positioning is a key part of Nández's role, he will press almost anywhere in his own half to allow defenders to stay in the defensive line.
With Nández running his socks off for the team, our high tempo will dictated by his partner in holding midfield, Marcelo Brozovic.
Brozovic is not just your “win the ball and pass it on to the closest player” – there is a real creative mind in his locker, but it’s his ability to be the shield of the back four and then be creative once he gets the ball that makes Brozovic such a talent.
The attacking unit consists of David Brooks, Pablo Fornals and Todd Cantwell as our band of three attacking midfielders with Luis Suárez as our lone central striker.
Our 4-2-3-1 is set up to have that wonderful ‘springy' quality - it absorbs pressure without breaking and then snaps back with surprising force.
In defence our 4-2-3-1 covers space very effectively, with the band of three attacking midfielders and centre forward able to press the opposition high up the pitch while the two defensive midfielders ensure that there is no space left in front of the defence. Then the back four can either play a high line, compressing the space even further, or drop deeper as preferred.
Once we have won the ball back, often by Brozovic or Nández, then our 4-2-3-1 can spring into attack.
Vrsaljko and Grimaldo can surge up the wings in the knowledge that Brozovic and Nández can drop into the space left behind if needed. As they come up the wings, both David Brooks and Todd Cantwell, who are fast speed merchants, excellent in tight spaces and fantastic dribblers will cut inside or make runs into the box. Pablo Fornals our attacking central midfielder’s low centre of gravity will enable him to navigate away from defenders at a frighteningly quick pace. Fornals is blessed with an instant first touch and can dribble with the ball at such a close proximity to his feet that it makes him almost impossible to tackle this creative passer with his one-touch passing and quick flicks, and who will combine exceptionally well with Brooks, Cantwell & Suárez to create openings and goal scoring opportunities for each other.
Upfront, Suárez will be utilised to “bind” our oppositions defenders in place by occupying them with his positioning, to the point of blocking their defenders in order to create space for Brooks, Fornals & Cantwell to exploit between the lines as this trio look to profit from Suárez’s off-the-ball actions.
Suárez will act as a focal point around which our team will build our attacks, using his strength to hold off their defenders. Suárez is proven adept at one-touch passing and quick flicks in combination play and of course Suarez’s stock in trade when the occasion calls for it – intelligent dummies to fool their defenders.
All 4 of our most advanced players are equally gifted in terms of assisting and scoring goals, and as thus we will not be purely reliant on Suárez on this front, although I expect of course for him to find the back of the net on a number of occasions.
Subs on 75 mins
Lewis on for Grimaldo and Bowen on for Brooks
Double substitution - Lots of energy and pace in the last 15 minutes to look to unlock the opposition’s defence for a late goal regardless of the score line
posted on 31/5/20
Attacking high press 3-5-2
We go with an attacking side, that is firstly solid at the back but more importantly gives us quality to dictate play in midfield and the ability to play at a high tempo. We go with a side with a high work rate, full of energy to press from the front. The defence starts with the front two.
Our formation allows us to play quick flowing play but also go with two up top. The front two set the tempo for the game with their all action styles. Both have the ability to drop deep and join in the attacks. Pogba the AM. We have three cms able to pick a pass, and with the ability to dictate the tempo of the game and control possession. Gilmour plays as the deep Cm, Thiago’s tactical awareness next to him being key in front of a strong back 3.
The width is provided by the wing backs, and by an over lapping cb. Stealing a Sheffield United tactic, we allow one cb to get forward at a time. Alaba/Militao overlapping the attacking wbs. This will see us always have two cbs and a deep Cm in defence when we attack offering cover.
We will direct our attacks down the wings. Both wing backs will have freedom to attack, bombing down the wings and crossing for the front two. The overlapping cbs, wbs and AM with front two will give us an overload in attacking situations.
We defend in a narrow formation, limiting the space for City to play in. The wingback on the opposite side of play will drop back into defence forming a back four. The wb on the side of play helps the cb on the side of play defend against the attacking winger and fb.
The defence and midfield press as a unit, ensuring there is no space between the lines for City attacking mids. When defending, Gilmour plays zonally in front of the cbs and will pick up the most attacking cm in the area. Thiago will play ball side of Gilmour. Pogba drops deep pressing the space next to Thiago and in front of Gilmour and always press the passing lanes. Pogba will pick up the 2nd most attacking cm if they break forward. Dybala looks to exploit the space out wide by their attacking fb and Lautaro splits the space between their cbs.
When we win the ball we attack at pace. Use the wing backs bombing forward linking with the overlapping cb am and forwards.
----------—-—---- Neuer ------------------
----------------------------------------------
-------Militao -- Laporte --Alaba ----
----------------------------------------------
Carvajal --- Gilmour -- Thiago.A --- Theo.H
------------——---- Pogba ---------------
------------------------------------------------
------------ Dybala ---- Lautaro.M -------
Subs. Schmeichel, Marquinhos, Rodri, Arthur, Gnabry, Dembele, Osimhen
Defence
When we lose the ball high up the park we always look to win it back straight away, don’t give City a chance to counter. The closest 2/3 players press. Allowing others to get back into position behind the ball. Neuer also guards against hopeful long balls over the top in his sweeper keeper role.
In a narrow, rigid formation, we will look to press the space, not allowing them options. Keep them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back very quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
When City get past the initial press higher up the park, we drop deeper into a narrower tighter formation narrowing to the side of play, ensuring there are no gaps in the formation set out above. Our defence have fantastic pace up against their forwards, bide their time, not diving in.
Attack
We counter quickly when we win the ball aiming our attacks down the wings. If the counter is not on we look to get the wing backs and wide forwards doubling up on their fbs, with one of the strikers always helping.
The back 3 are all comfortable on the ball and look to play out, helping us move the ball quickly having a strong base. Neuer's accurate long balls will also help as we seek to counter quickly exposing space left by City in attack.
Subs.
If winning after 72 mins bring on Rodri for Gilmour. More power and energy in cm.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Gnabry for Dybala. Fresh pace to get at tired defences.
If winning after 80 mins bring on Arthur on for Pogna.
If drawing or losing after 67 mins bring on Gnabry for Theo. 4-2-3-1. Gnabry LW, Dybala RW.
If drawing or losing after 72 mins bring on Dembele for Gilmour. Pogba to Cm, Thiago dm.
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