NEWCASTLE UNITED v Man City
Injuries: Le Normand, Kovacic, Diaz, Toney
---------------------- Oblak
Walker - Tapsoba - Rudiger - Mendy
------------- Mainoo - Palhinha
---------- De Bruyne - Fernandes
-------------Alvarez - Kolo Muani
Subs: Trafford, Gomez, Merino, Paqueta, Kudus, Sane, Mudryk
----------------
A huge FA Cup final, Man City will be tough to beat, but our back four and midfield two should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-2-2-2 today, Oblak in goal, Rudiger and Tapsoba at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Palhinha and Mainoo the two holding in midfield, with Kevin De Bruyne and Bruno Fernandes ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, and Julian Alvarez upfront with Randal Kolo Muani.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. City are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Alvarez and Kolo Muani.
Rudiger/Tapsoba - Rudiger to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Tapsoba to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to their runners from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Walker/Mendy - Both of you to force the City attacking midfielders out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Palhinha and Mainoo to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap De Bruyne/Fernandes as they will try to drag the fullback infield, and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Alvarez and Kolo Muani. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Palhinha/Mainoo - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent City's AM (most likely Odegaard) from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for each other, Walker and Mendy either side of you, and De Bruyne and Fernandes ahead of you. Alternate joining the attack but ensuring one of you stays back at all times.
De Bruyne/Fernandes - Playing as the AM's today, look to bridge the gap between midfield and attack. Without the ball form a midfield four alongside Mainoo and Palhinha, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Palhinha/Mainoo and look for Alvarez/Kolo Muani making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Play in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Mainoo/Palhinha, or for each other, or drag defenders out of position to create space for Alvarez/Kolo Muani to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Alvarez/Kolo Muani - You will be expected to occupy and stretch the City centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep and for each other. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to make alternate runs to keep their defence guessing, occasionally drop wide (one at a time) to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne/Fernandes to get forward into and more space for your strike partner. Expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/Fernandes/Mainoo, and don't be afraid to take chances first time to limit their defence being able to recover and block attempts.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: De Bruyne, Fernandes and Kolo Muani off, Merino, Kudus and Mudryk on. Change to a flat 4-5-1, Merino alongside Palhinha and Mainoo, Kudus and Mudryk to RW and LW, Alvarez down the middle. Absorb pressure, look to counter a City side chasing the game with our pace and fresh legs, ball retention is key to closing down the game. Utilise the pace and trickery of Kudus and Mudryk to create chances.
If drawing at 70 mins: De Bruyne and Mainoo off, Paqueta and Merino on. Like for like, same formation but with fresh legs and fresh ideas to force a winner. Paqueta alongside Fernandes at AM, Merino alongside Palhinha at CM.
If drawing at 119 mins: Mendy off, Sane on. Fill in at left back briefly, then you're there to take a penalty.
If losing at 70 mins: Mainoo, Palhinha and Tapsoba off, Paqueta, Kudus and Sane on. Change to 3-1-4-2, De Bruyne in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
----------------------- Oblak
--------Walker - Rudiger - Mendy
------------------- De Bruyne
Kudus - Paqueta - Fernandes - Sane
----------- Alvarez - Kolo Muani
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne, Fernandes or Merino in that order
Penalties: Fernandes or Alvarez in that order
Penalty shootout takers (based on "if drawing" scenario)
1. Fernandes
2. Alvarez
3. Rudiger
4. Sane
5. Kolo Muani
6. Paqueta
7. Palhinha
8. Walker
9. Merino
10. Tapsoba
11. Oblak
------------------------ 🇮🇪 Kelleher ---------------------------
------ 🇫🇷 Kounde --- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni ---------
🇪🇸 Carvajal -- 🇪🇨 Caicedo --- 🇳🇱 X.Simons - 🇲🇦 Hakimi
------------------------ 🇳🇴 Ødegaard -------------------------
-------------- 🇷🇸 D.Vlahovic --- 🇫🇷 C.Nkunku -------------
Subs:
Timber, Van de Ven, Lavia, J.Gomes, Barcola, Garnacho, Zirkzee
Captain: Van Dijk
Free Kicks: Ødegaard
Penalties: Nkunku
Corners: Ødegaard
Cup final day and we look to finish the season with a bang as we go in search of more silverware with an attacking 3-4-1-2.
The beauty of this set up is that it offers great flexibility, the perfect blend of attacking finesse and defensive strength it gives us all the tools required to get the better of our opponents.
The opposition have some strong attackers however we look to snuff them out by playing a back 3 which turns into a back 5 when out of possession. We sit in giving them no space in behind, in addition to this we have a DM shielding the defence, offering additional support as we look to blunt their attack. Their forwards will be shackled by our back 3 whilst our wingbacks will work in tandem to stifle any attacks down the flank.
When in possession our wingbacks have license to get forward. As soon as we win back possession we spring from our defensive set up. Carvajal and Hakimi push forward, working in tandem with Odegaard and the advancing Simons we can create two on one’s against their fullbacks if their wingers don’t track back. Quick one two’s will pull them out of position as we cut through them in the final third. Our wingbacks will hug the touchline making the pitch as wide as possible.
As I alluded to above our set up enables us to have great flexibility ensuring we are no one trick ponies. If the opponents adjust their set up to stop us overwhelming them out wide by using their CM’s to support their fullbacks this opens up the middle of the field. The problem this will create for them is the little X factor we have in the middle, X by name X by nature Xavi Simons presence at CM creates the perfect little wrinkle for us to hit them from multiple angles. Out of possession Simons sits alongside Caicedo but in possession he has license to get forward. When he does our wingbacks will sit in, fresh from by bombarded down the flanks Newcastle will be expecting another flying attack out wide but instead we hit them through the middle. Simon’s pushes up alongside Odegaard as dual AM’s working in tandem with our front two of Vlahovic and Nkunku to cause havoc in the final third.
----------------- Kelleher
----- Kounde - Van Dijk - Bastoni
Carvajal ------ Caicedo ------ Hakimi
------ Odegaard ------ X.Simons
----------- Vlahovic - Nkunku
Essentially we force the opposition to pick their poison, risk being overwhelmed out wide by our attacking wingbacks or get exploited through the middle when Simons advances and we go with twin AM’s and dual strikers. In all sequences we ensure we have sufficient defensive cover with Caicedo shielding our defence.
Defence:
We go with a perfectly balanced back three, strong defensively but also with great ball players which will allow us to retain possession and play out from the back. If they play one up top then Van Dijk will mark, Kounde and Bastoni will act as cover and stay relatively centrally at all times picking up any additional forwards. We keep the central area’s compact making it extremely difficult for the opposition to have any sniff at goal.
Out of possession our wingbacks sit in giving us a solid back 5 and no space for the opposition in the final third. When in possession both Carvajal and Hakimi have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third.
Midfield:
Caicedo will provide a bundle of energy in the middle. An all action player we rely on his fantastic tenacity and high level work rate 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. His role will be purely defensive as he offers another layer of protection in front of back three.
Simons will start alongside Caicedo providing us with another body in the middle. Great workrate he’ll hustle and bustle when we’re out of possession but in possession he will get forward and has great quality in the final third, capable of creating and scoring he’ll link up perfectly with our attacking trio.
Odegaard plays at #10. One of the most creative playmakers in the game he has the freedom to dictate as he pleases. Look for the runs out wide of our fullbacks or into play with Nkunku & Vlahovic up top. Both our forwards will be looking for the slide through ball in behind, quick one two’s in and around their box will open up space and if they back off and sit two deep the Norwegian is more than capable from curling home a pearler from the edge of the box.
Forwards:
We go with a deadly attacking duo up top. Nkunku will be the link up, quick feet and quality in tight spaces he has license to drift across the frontline. He’ll mix things up, showing feet one minute and then spinning off looking for the through ball from Odegaard in behind the next. He’ll also thrive off any any knockdowns from our big number 9 beside him.
Vlahovic gives us that aerial presence up top. Any balls into him will stick and Nkunku will feast off the chances created by his knockdowns or flick on’s. One on one he’s a real handful capable of shrugging off defenders and is a deadly finisher. When we have it out wide he’ll be looking to attack the box with the big man deadly in the air. Goals win games and with the creativity around him we feel he and Nkunku offer us the firepower to bring trophy home.
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Carvajal off, Timber on. Fresh legs at RWB.
75 mins: Simons off, Joao Gomes on. Dual DM’s shielding our defence.
85 mins: Nkunku off, Garnacho on. With the opposition pushing Garnacho offers us the perfect counter attacking threat to seal the win.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Carvajal off, Garnacho on. 4-3-3 with Kounde moving to RB and Garnacho up top alongside our forwards.
80 mins: Simons & Hakimi off, Barcola & Lavia on. Pep Guardiola inspired 3-2-3-2 as we go for the win.
-------------- Kelleher
-- Kounde -- Van Dijk -- Bastoni
-------- Caicedo -- Lavia
Garnacho - Odegaard - Barcola
--------- Vlahovic -- Nkunku
Watford – Europa League Semi Vs Villa
Captain – André
Vice Captain – Collins
-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley--Collins--Murillo--Vanderlan
--------------André--Jones
Prestianni-------White-------Edwards
-------------------Evanilson
SUBS – Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Redondo, Gómez, Enciso, Leonardo
Today we will concentrate on doing what we do best and playing to our strengths – keeping hold of the ball and working it simply around the park. Nothing flash or risky – just possession football. Patience could be the key and if we keep it tight we have the personnel to get us a goal. We have pace to move the ball forward very quickly and enough pace to regain our shape if the opposition turn it around and try and counter us. This is a formation that can slot into a number of systems. We can easily slip into a 4-3-3, 4-5-1 or a 4-4-2 depending on how the match pans out. When defending it will be more of a defensive 4-4-2 with Jones and André holding in the middle with White just in front pressing the opposition and making a nuisance of himself. The whole team will sit that wee bit deeper but always ready for any possible counter.
With the ability of our team to change formation depending on the circumstances I think we have enough in midfield and out wide to starve them from the ball. We will be looking to get bodies in the box. With fast and fluid attacking play Evanilson will always have support in this area and our wide men will always have a target to get the ball in to. With the trickery of White, Prestianni and Edwards, the opposition can always expect the unexpected when we are on the attack. We will not be afraid to hit them on the counter as with our full backs and wingers we have enough speed and skill to beat most teams. We will also be very respectful of what the opposition can do and will look to press them with urgency when we are looking the ball. We will take the risks we need to open them up ONLY when the correct chance arises. In saying that we will have a measured approach and if they try to play with a high tempo we will match that. We are not here to let them dictate the game. We will play it how we want to play and we will have a right go at them.
We will use André and Jones to dictate the tempo of the play to suit our moment. I think with our mobility and physicality we can really stamp our authority on this area right from the off. The wingers will be asked to vary the attack between taking the full backs on the outside, or cutting inside. Whatever seems right at the moment – in order to carve up their defence. The pace of the wingers will cause a lot of headaches and the ability of both wingers and the AM to interchange positions will be something we will use to add to the confusion in the opposition ranks. We will look for our midfield to make it very difficult for them to link up play between their midfield and the front men – hopefully meaning their attack will not see a whole lot of the ball.
Without the ball we will look to White and the wingers/CF to press and give the opposition no space at all to work in. When in possession we will take our time and keep our passing neat and simple. We will be looking for White (supported by Jones) to orchestrate our attacks. He will be the main man in creating the openings. We will look to our speed outside and on the overlap as well as the cleverness of White in playing the ball through and behind the defenders giving our attacking widemen and CF plenty of ammunition to get on the end of.
Free Kicks/Corners - White, Edwards and Prestianni with Murillo, Collins and Evanilson expected to go up for attacking set plays.
Penalties - Evanilson or Edwards
SUBS
If Winning (on 75 mins) – Quansah for Murillo and Enciso for Prestianni – (Straight Swap)
If losing (on 70 mins) – Leonardo for André, and Enciso for Prestianni (Switch to attacking 4-1-3-2):
-------------Jones
Enciso----White------Edwards
--Evanilson --Leonardo
Watford – Europa League Final (not that we’ll reach it)
Captain – Moscardo
Vice Captain – Collins
-----------------Verbruggen
Wesley--Collins--Murillo--Vanderlan
--------------Moscardo--Gómez
Prestianni-------White-------Guilherme
-------------------Evanilson
SUBS – Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Redondo, Fernandes, Enciso, Leonardo
Today we will concentrate on doing what we do best and playing to our strengths – keeping hold of the ball and working it simply around the park. Nothing flash or risky – just possession football. Patience could be the key and if we keep it tight we have the personnel to get us a goal. We have pace to move the ball forward very quickly and enough pace to regain our shape if the opposition turn it around and try and counter us. This is a formation that can slot into a number of systems. We can easily slip into a 4-3-3, 4-5-1 or a 4-4-2 depending on how the match pans out. When defending it will be more of a defensive 4-4-2 with Gómez and Moscardo holding in the middle with White just in front pressing the opposition and making a nuisance of himself. The whole team will sit that wee bit deeper but always ready for any possible counter.
With the ability of our team to change formation depending on the circumstances I think we have enough in midfield and out wide to starve them from the ball. We will be looking to get bodies in the box. With fast and fluid attacking play Evanilson will always have support in this area and our wide men will always have a target to get the ball in to. With the trickery of White, Prestianni and Guilherme, the opposition can always expect the unexpected when we are on the attack. We will not be afraid to hit them on the counter as with our full backs and wingers we have enough speed and skill to beat most teams. We will also be very respectful of what the opposition can do and will look to press them with urgency when we are looking the ball. We will take the risks we need to open them up ONLY when the correct chance arises. In saying that we will have a measured approach and if they try to play with a high tempo we will match that. We are not here to let them dictate the game. We will play it how we want to play and we will have a right go at them.
We will use Moscardo and Gómez to dictate the tempo of the play to suit our moment. I think with our mobility and physicality we can really stamp our authority on this area right from the off. The wingers will be asked to vary the attack between taking the full backs on the outside, or cutting inside. Whatever seems right at the moment – in order to carve up their defence. The pace of the wingers will cause a lot of headaches and the ability of both wingers and the AM to interchange positions will be something we will use to add to the confusion in the opposition ranks. We will look for our midfield to make it very difficult for them to link up play between their midfield and the front men – hopefully meaning their attack will not see a whole lot of the ball.
Without the ball we will look to White and the wingers/CF to press and give the opposition no space at all to work in. When in possession we will take our time and keep our passing neat and simple. We will be looking for White (supported by Gómez) to orchestrate our attacks. He will be the main man in creating the openings. We will look to our speed outside and on the overlap as well as the cleverness of White in playing the ball through and behind the defenders giving our attacking widemen and CF plenty of ammunition to get on the end of.
Free Kicks/Corners - White, Guilherme and Prestianni with Murillo, Collins and Evanilson expected to go up for attacking set plays.
Penalties - Evanilson or Guilherme
SUBS
If Winning (on 75 mins) – Quansah for Murillo and Enciso for Prestianni – (Straight Swap)
If losing (on 70 mins) – Leonardo for Moscardo, and Enciso for Prestianni (Switch to attacking 4-1-3-2):
-------------Gómez
Enciso----White------Guilherme
--Evanilson --Leonardo
Watford: League Week 1 AWAY to Leicester
Captain: André
Vice-Captain: Verbruggen
----------------Verbruggen
Bradley---Collins---Murillo--Vanderlan
--------------André--Jones
-------------------Ensico
Alisson-----------------------------Edwards
-----------------Evanilson
SUBS: Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Moscardo, Gómez, Guilherme, Ferguson
SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with André as the holding/defensive midfielder who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (Jones). In front of them Ensico 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’ Jones will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Ensico 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: Verbruggen is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. 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 André as the one holding/defensive midfielder. 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 (Jones). 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 Ensico will operate as the link between midfield and attack. He will be our creator and can find that magic pass to break open a defence and release one of our front three.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Alisson and Edwards 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 Ensico, Jones and Evanilson 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 Jones may sit a bit deeper allowing Ensico 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.
Evanilson 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: Ensico, Edwards or Alisson with Collins, Murillo and Evanilson to offer an aerial threat. Ensico and Edwards (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Substitutions: (80 mins) If winning, then 3 like for like subs – Quansah for Collins, Moscardo for André and Ferguson for Evanilson.
If losing (60 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Jones with Ferguson and Alisson with Guilherme. 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.
--------------André
Guilherme---Ensico---Edwards
--------Ferguson--Evanilson
------------------------- Andreev -------------------------
J.Kimmich - Kim Min-jae - Marc Guehi - Mittlestadt
---------------- B.Kamara --- F. de Jong ----------------
-- F. Torres ---------- Goncalves ---------- Williams --
------------------------ O.Watkins ------------------------
Oliwier Zych(youth), Adarabioyo, Robertson, Baleba, M.Rogers, J.David, Moukoko
A solid back 4 with Guehi looking to pick up the main striker, he is quick and powerful CB to come against, so will look to bully the striker, be on his toes at all times looking to intercept and ball through to No.9 nip in ahead when he can but nothing rash so he doesnt lose out in possession. Kim alongside, again a very tough, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Guehi if needed or pick up a SS/AM, Both can play it out and very good on the ball so no need for rash punts up field unless tequired and no other option, will look to play it to the fullbacks or the midfielders ahead
Fullbacks will attack at the same time look for the one/two with the winger ahead but will time these and not bomb forward willy nilly, Mittlestadt over lapping allowing Williams to come inside, or just play him, can also use the CMs for quick passing to get the winger passed the opposition fullbacks,Kimmich will come inside alot to make up a midfield 3 to opush on centrally. defensively, stay strong, keep the wingers to the outside away from danger, try and keep them on there 'bad' foot so they find it difficult to get a cross in, I do not want to see my defenders dive in, so stay tall and use upper body strength to keep there chances to a minimum. This is a solid back 4 who will be difficult to attack, must stay focussed.
The 2 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Kamara is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, Kamara will be there snapping at his heals, de Jong is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Kamara making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball.
Pote in an AM/free role/SS basically anywhere across the line where he will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence just hassle the midfield/defenders and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.
Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks, Ferran comes inside alot, Nico Williams to the outside, at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, always dragging players away to make space for himself and others, getting into dangerous positions waiting for the ball to come his way, he makes runs other forwards dont he has the intelligence find the space for others to find, he should get plenty supply, he doesnt defend, no need too, if he stays up top this will stop their defenders moving forward especially with the 3 behind buzzing around.
Captain - Kimmich
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - de Jong
Corners - de Jong
Losing -
65 Mins - Moukoko for Goncalves 442 a lethal striker needs only one chance, M.Rogers for Williams fresh quick on the left
75 Mins - J.David for Mittlestadt, go up top 343
Winning -
75 Mins - Baleba for Goncalves and into a 451 formation
83 Mins - J.David for Watkins, Rogers for Williams
Drawing -
70 Mins - J.David for Goncalves, Rogers for Williams, Moukoko for Watkins
Chelsea v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Diaz, Lima, Sane, Mendy
------------------------- Oblak
Walker - Le Normand - Rudiger - Chilwell
--------------- Mainoo - Palhinha
Kudus ---------- De Bruyne ---------- Mitoma
------------------------Alvarez
Subs: Pickford, Couto, Dorgu, Kovacic, Paqueta, Fernandes, Kolo Muani
----------------
Champions League semi final, first leg. You can't win a two legged tie in the first leg but you can definitely lose it, so it's important to stay compact in midfield and utilise our attacking strengths to get at Chelsea.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 today, Oblak in goal, Rudiger and Le Normand at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ben Chilwell at fullback, Palhinha and Mainoo the two holding in midfield, Kevin De Bruyne with Kudus and Mitoma either side of him, and Julian Alvarez upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Chelsea are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Alvarez.
Rudiger/Le Normand - Rudiger to mark Haaland, bully him like you usually do, and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Le Normand to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to their runners from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Walker/Chilwell - Both of you to force the Chelsea wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. Walker to pay special attention to Mbappe, as one of the few Defenders who can match his pace. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Palhinha and Mainoo to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Kudus/Mitoma as they will try to drag the fullback infield, and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Alvarez. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Palhinha/Mainoo - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Chelsea's AM (most likely Bellingham) from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for each other, Walker and Mendy either side of you, and De Bruyne ahead of you. Alternate joining the attack but ensuring one of you stays back at all times.
De Bruyne - Playing as the AM today, look to bridge the gap between midfield and attack. Without the ball form a midfield three alongside Mainoo and Palhinha, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Palhinha/Mainoo and look for Alvarez/Kudus/Mitoma making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Play in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Mainoo/Palhinha, or for each other, or drag defenders out of position to create space for Alvarez/Kudus/Mitoma to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Kudus/Mitoma - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Walker and Chilwell overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Alvarez and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Bruyne will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Alvarez's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Palhinha and Mainoo to make it hard for Chelsea to break us down.
Alvarez - You will be expected to occupy and stretch the Chelsea centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep and for each other. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to make alternate runs to keep their defence guessing, occasionally drop wide to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne/Kudus/Mitoma to get forward into and more space for your strike partner. Expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/Mainoo, and don't be afraid to take chances first time to limit their defence being able to recover and block attempts.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: De Bruyne, Kudus and Mitoma off, Kovacic, Couto and Dorgu on. Change to a flat 4-5-1, Kovacic alongside Palhinha and Mainoo in midfield, Couto and Dorgu to RM and LM, and Alvarez down the middle. Absorb pressure, look to counter a Chelsea side chasing the game with our pace and fresh legs, ball retention is key to closing down the game. Couto and Dorgu being naturally wingbacks means we can double up on Chelsea's wingers when we are out of possession.
If drawing or losing at 70 mins: De Bruyne and Mainoo off, Fernandes and Merino on. Like for like, same formation but with fresh legs and fresh ideas to force a goal. Fernandes at AM, Merino alongside Palhinha at CM.
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne, Fernandes or Couto in that order
Penalties: Fernandes or Alvarez in that order
Brentford v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Injuries: Riad, Pope, Gallagher, Cancelo
--------------------- Ederson
Porro - De Ligt - Skriniar - Grimaldo
------------ D Luiz - Zubimendi
Dembele ------- B Silva -------- Gnabry
‐---------------------- Kane
Subs: Ramsdale, Ake, Fofana, Maddison, Kulusevski, Rashford, Guirassy
Europa League semi final, first leg. You can't win a two legged tie in the first leg but you can definitely lose it, so it's important to stay compact in midfield and utilise our attacking strengths to get at Brentford.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 in possession and a 4-5-1 out of possession, Ederson in goal, De Ligt and Skriniar at centreback, Porro and Grimaldo at fullback, Douglas Luiz and Zubimendi as a double pivot with Bernardo Silva ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Dembele and Gnabry either side of Harry Kane upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Brentford are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Ederson - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Kane.
De Ligt/Skriniar - De Ligt to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Skriniar to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to their runners from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Porro/Grimaldo - Both of you to force the Brentford wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Luiz and Zubimendi to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Dembele and Gnabry as they will try to drag the fullback infield, and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Kane, and link with Bernardo Silva. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Luiz/Zubimendi - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Brentford from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for Porro and Grimaldo either side of you, and Bernardo ahead of you. Both playing in a box to box role, join in with attacks but one of you to always stay back, the other to get back quickly.
Bernardo Silva - Playing as our main AM when in possession, without the ball form a midfield trio with Luiz and Zubimendi, but in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Porro/Grimaldo/Luiz/Zubimendi, and look for Dembele/Gnabry/Kane making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Utilise Luiz/Zubimendi playing in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Luiz/Zubimendi, or defenders out of position to create space for Dembele/Gnabry/Kane to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Dembele/Gnabry - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Porro and Grimaldo overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Kane and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Luiz, Zubimendi and Bernardo will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Kane's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of Luiz, Zubimendi and Bernardo to make it hard for Brentford to break us down.
Kane - You will be expected to occupy the Brentford centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Try and swap with Dembele and Gnabry on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for Luiz/Zubimendi/Bernardo to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from Luiz/Zubimendi/Bernardo, and don't be afraid to take chances first time to limit their defence being able to recover and block attempts.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: Bernardo, Gnabry and Kane off, Fofana, Rashford and Guirassy on. Flat 4-5-1, Zubimendi, Luiz and Fofana the midfield wall, Rashford to LW, Guirassy upfront. Absorb pressure and strike on the break with the pace and fresh legs of Dembele/Rashford/Guirassy.
If drawing or losing at 70 mins: Dembele, Gnabry and Kane off, Kulusevski, Rashford and Guirassy on. Same system, but a fresh front three with Kulusevski RW, Rashford LW and Guirassy upfront, to get at the tiring Brentford backline.
Setpieces:
Corners: Bernardo or Luiz in that order
Penalties: Kane or Guirassy in that order
4-3-1-2 High tempo
We play a fluid attacking team full of pace and power and a high tempo, dominate possession in cm with pace up top and width from fbs to stretch the game. Control the midfield and bully City’s kids, in open play and set pieces.
Foden in a free role in attack, we look to expose the space between their defence and midfield. A midfield 3 that are very strong defensively providing great cover for our attacking fbs.
Musiala, Rodri and Valverde have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Valverde and Musiala have the power, energy and quality on the ball to play box to box roles, Rodri as the sitting cm providing cover and controlling the tempo of the game. When attacking down the right Musiala comes inside next to Rodri, giving Valverde freedom to attack and link with Trent, Foden and Osimhen. Vice versa happens on the other side.
The cm coming across next to Rodri, provide a duo to control midfield and keep possession, defensively providing great cover for the attacking fbs. The fbs bombing forward to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate. Foden with complete freedom to come deep, wide or go beyond the cfs.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden and Trent (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully City.
Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through them starting from the back, playing fast flowing football but varying the tempo when we need to slow down and regain control.
We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.
————————————— Alisson
Trent.A —— Marquinhos —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
—————- Valverde —— Rodri —— Musiala
————————————— P.Foden ——————
————————- Osimhen ——— Isak
Subs. Sanchez, Militao, Ugarte, Mac Allister, Olise, Gordon, Kvaratskhelia
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape. Isak drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the 3 cms narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Foden is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.
Gvardiol the man-marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Valverde and Musiala either side of him, and just slightly ahead of him pressing the play in line of 3 cms. Foden zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Isak marks their deepest cm. Isak and Foden giving our cms ability to press and narrow to the side opposition are attacking. In zones to stop their attacking midfielders and allowing Rodri to cover or step in if one cm needs to step out to press or to help the fb.
In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options.
Attack
Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.
We play a fluid front three, who switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This will help the players to get away from their markers, and create space.
Subs.
If winning after 68 mins bring on Kvatskhelia for Osimhen. Pace, power, trickery against tired legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Mac Allister for Musiala.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Militao for Trent.
If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Olise for Trent. 3-5-2. Theo lcb. Olise right, Musiala left. Foden CAM, Valverde cm next to Rodri.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Kvaratskhelia for Foden and Gordon for Musiala, fresh pace and trickery.
---------------------- E.Martinez -----------------------
Ben White - Ruben Dias - Pau. Torres - N. Mendes
------------ Tchouameni --- Declan. Rice ------------
--------------------- J.Bellingham ----------------------
--- M.Soule -------------------------------- Mbappe ---
----------------------- E.Haaland ------------------------
T.Setford, T.Mitchell, A.Varela, Koopmeiners, A.Guler, K.Yildiz, Ramos
Without the ball to press
---------------------- E.Martinez -----------------------
-------------- Ruben Dias - Pau. Torres --------------
-- Ben White ----- Declan. Rice ----- N. Mendes --
------------ Tchouameni --- J.Bellingham -----------
--- M.Soule -------------------------------- Mbappe ---
----------------------- E.Haaland -----------------------
we need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. Yes they are a good side but they are vulnerable at left fullback where we look to expose them with M.Soule. We have plenty pace, power and most importantly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly.
Our fullback will come inside to help with the extra man advantage in midfield, I want Rice taking care of the AM, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the likes of Rice and Tchouameni with that extra midfielder so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, Mendes and Mbappe obvs have an understanding so Mendes look to push wide allowing Mbappe to cut inside, one twos which will either get Mendes out wide to cross in or Mbappe to get into the box with a nice slide rule pass, White will likely look for more of a long ball over to utilise Soule pace to beat the defenders.
Tchouameni and Rice must be patient, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Rice doing the marking job on the most advanced midfielder opposition may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, he sometimes becomes a 3rd CB, when under attack with Jude dropping back also beside Tchouameni, when attacking Rice sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our two CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. Tchgouameni will push a further forward joining Jude, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area be creative with his passing, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Bellingham is the link between midfield and attack, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play as we are definitely up against it, let the pass go as players come onto him, as this will take them out them game and less for our attackers to worry about, plenty options for him to aim for if he decides not to go for goal himself and he is always good for a goal or two. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediate so will always help out Tchouameni and Rice so will drop back to help and as we win the ball he will then look to start attacks very quickly.
Our wingers are extremely quick and tricky, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack, make sure their fullbacks attacks are nulified just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, M.Soule and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I want Soule especielly cutting inside and onto his stronger left foot, Chilwell at LB is certainly a weak link for Mbappe to drive against, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Thouameni and Jude more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power/pace/movement, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Jude, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.
Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Subs:-
Losing -
65 Mins - K.Yildiz for Tchouameni, A.Guler for Soule, Guler like for like, Yildiz to LW, Mbappe up top, Bellingham into midfield beside Rice, young enthusiastic players on to make a name for themselves
75 Mins - Koopmeiners for Mendes go 3412 attack
Winning -
75 Mins - T.Mitchell for Mendes, A.Varela for Tchouameni, he takes over the DM role
83 Mins - K.Yildiz for Haaland, he goes LW, Mbappe up top
Drawing
70 Mins - Guler for Soule, Koopmeiners for Tchouameni, bit more creative from the centre
80 Mins - K.Yildiz for Haaland, he goes LW, Mbappe up top
Europa League Semi Final
BRENTFORD v Tottenham Hotspur
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Matt O'Riley
Milos Kerkez
Rico Henry
Hiroki Ito
_________________🇮🇹Vicario
🇯🇵Sugawara__🇦🇹Danso__🏴 Greaves__🇧🇦Dedic
___________🇦🇹Seiwald_____🇦🇹Laimer
_________🇭🇺Szoboszlai____🇦🇹Baumgartner
__________🇧🇪Openda_______🇵🇹Jota
Subs
🇩🇰 Mads Hermansen
🏴 Taylor Harwood-Bellis
🇲🇦 Amir Richardson
🇵🇹 Fábio Carvalho
🇸🇪 Sebastian Nanasi
🏴 Brennan Johnson
🇲🇽 Santiago Gimenez
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai
Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.
What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.
The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.
The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.
The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.
What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.
The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.
The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.
The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.
Subs on 70 mins
Carvalho on for Baumgartner
Johnson on for Jota
Gimenez on for Openda
--------------------------- Raya --------------------------
Vanderson - John Stones - Marc Guehi - Robertson
--------------- J.Kimmich --- F. de Jong ---------------
L.Bailey ----------------------------------------- Gordon
------------------------ M.Rogers ------------------------
------------------------- Watkins -------------------------
Bazanu, Kim Min-jae, M.Wieffer, Mittlestadt, Gilmour, J.David, Moukoko
A solid back 4 with Guehi looking to pick up the main striker, he is quick and powerful CB to come against, so will look to bully the striker, be on his toes at all times looking to intercept and ball through to No.9 nip in ahead when he can but nothing rash so he doesnt lose out in possession. Stones alongside, again a very tough, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Guehi if needed or pick up a SS/AM, Both can play it out and very good on the ball so no need for rash punts up field unless tequired and no other option, will look to play it to the fullbacks or the midfielders ahead
Fullbacks will attack at the same time look for the one/two with the winger ahead but will time these and not bomb forward willy nilly, Robertson over lapping allowing Gordon to come inside, or just play him, can also use the CMs for quick passing to get the winger passed the opposition fullbacks, Vanderson will come inside alot to make up a midfield 3 to push on centrally. defensively, stay strong, keep the wingers to the outside away from danger, try and keep them on there 'bad' foot so they find it difficult to get a cross in, I do not want to see my defenders dive in, so stay tall and use upper body strength to keep there chances to a minimum. This is a solid back 4 who will be difficult to attack, must stay focussed.
The 2 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Kimmich is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, Kimmich will be there snapping at his heals, de Jong is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Kimmich making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball.
Morgan Rogers in an AM/free role/SS basically anywhere across the line where he will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence just hassle the midfield/defenders and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.
Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks, Bailey comes inside alot, Gordon to the outside, at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, always dragging players away to make space for himself and others, getting into dangerous positions waiting for the ball to come his way, he makes runs other forwards dont he has the intelligence find the space for others to find, he should get plenty supply, he doesnt defend, no need too, if he stays up top this will stop their defenders moving forward especially with the 3 behind buzzing around.
Captain - Kimmich
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - de Jong
Corners - de Jong
Losing -
60 mins - Moukoko & Kim Min-jae for Robertson and Vanderson, 3 at the back Moukoko to CF, Rogers to LCF, Watkins to RCF 343 attacking
70 Mins - J.David for Rogers
Winning
75 Mins - Wieffer for Rogers, Gilmour for Vanderson, Wieffer goes into DM role behind Gilmour and de Jong, Kimmich to RB
83 Mins -J.David for Watkins
Drawing -
70 Mins - J.David for Rogers
78 Mins - Moukoko for Watkins, Mittlestadt fot Robertson
---------------------- E.Martinez -----------------------
Ben White - Ruben Dias - Cr. Romero - N. Mendes
------------ E.Fernandez -- Declan. Rice ------------
--------------------- Koopmeiners ----------------------
--- A.Guler -------------------------------- Mbappe ---
---------------------- E. Haaland -----------------------
Setford, R.Lewis, Colwill, Tchouameni, M.Soule, R.Leao, Omorodion
we need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. Yes they are a good side but they are vulnerable at left fullback where we look to expose them with A.Guler. We have plenty pace, power and most importantly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly.
Our fullback will come inside to help with the extra man advantage in midfield, I want Rice taking care of the AM, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the likes of Rice and Enzo with that extra midfielder so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, Mendes and Mbappe obvs have an understanding so Mendes look to push wide allowing Mbappe to cut inside, one twos which will either get Mendes out wide to cross in or Mbappe to get into the box with a nice slide rule pass, White will likely look for more of a long ball over to utilise Guler pace to beat the defenders.
Enzo and Rice must be patient, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Rice doing the marking job on the most advanced midfielder opposition may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, he sometimes becomes a 3rd CB, when under attack with Jude dropping back also beside Tchouameni, when attacking Rice sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our two CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. Enzo will push a further forward joining Koopmeiners, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area be creative with his passing, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Koopmeiners is the link between midfield and attack, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play as we are definitely up against it, let the pass go as players come onto him, as this will take them out them game and less for our attackers to worry about, plenty options for him to aim for if he decides not to go for goal himself and he is always good for a goal or two. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediate so will always help out Enzo and Rice so will drop back to help and as we win the ball he will then look to start attacks very quickly.
Our wingers are extremely quick and tricky, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack, make sure their fullbacks attacks are nulified just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, Guler and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I want Guler especially cutting inside and onto his stronger left foot, Chilwell at LB is certainly a weak link for Guler to drive against, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Enzo and Koopmeiners more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power/pace/movement, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Koopmeiners, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.
Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Mbappe
Subs:-
Losing -
65 Mins - Tchouameni for Enzo, Leao for Koopmeiners, Tchouameni and Rice is a solid midfield duo, Mbappe up top, Leao to LW 442/424
75 Mins - Omorodion for Mendes 343 big lad to play a high ball if needed
Winning -
75 Mins - Tchouameni for Koopmeiners, Rice takes a step back into a full on DM role, Tchouamnei sitting beside Enzo, Sould for Guler
85 Mins - Omorodion for Haaland, big lad hold it up, see it out
Drawing -
70 Mins - Soule for Guler, Tchouameni for Enzo
80 Mins - R.Lewis for Koopmeiners and into a 3 man midfield to see it out
Watford v Aston Villa (Semi Final Second Leg)
Captain – Moscardo
Vice Captain – Collins
-----------------Verbruggen
Wesley--Collins--Murillo--Vanderlan
--------------Moscardo--Gómez
Prestianni-------White-------Guilherme
-------------------Evanilson
SUBS – Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Redondo, Fernandes, Enciso, Leonardo
Today we will concentrate on doing what we do best and playing to our strengths – keeping hold of the ball and working it simply around the park. Nothing flash or risky – just possession football. Patience could be the key and if we keep it tight we have the personnel to get us a goal. We have pace to move the ball forward very quickly and enough pace to regain our shape if the opposition turn it around and try and counter us. This is a formation that can slot into a number of systems. We can easily slip into a 4-3-3, 4-5-1 or a 4-4-2 depending on how the match pans out. When defending it will be more of a defensive 4-4-2 with Gómez and Moscardo holding in the middle with White just in front pressing the opposition and making a nuisance of himself. The whole team will sit that wee bit deeper but always ready for any possible counter.
With the ability of our team to change formation depending on the circumstances I think we have enough in midfield and out wide to starve them from the ball. We will be looking to get bodies in the box. With fast and fluid attacking play Evanilson will always have support in this area and our wide men will always have a target to get the ball in to. With the trickery of White, Prestianni and Guilherme, the opposition can always expect the unexpected when we are on the attack. We will not be afraid to hit them on the counter as with our full backs and wingers we have enough speed and skill to beat most teams. We will also be very respectful of what the opposition can do and will look to press them with urgency when we are looking the ball. We will take the risks we need to open them up ONLY when the correct chance arises. In saying that we will have a measured approach and if they try to play with a high tempo we will match that. We are not here to let them dictate the game. We will play it how we want to play and we will have a right go at them.
We will use Moscardo and Gómez to dictate the tempo of the play to suit our moment. I think with our mobility and physicality we can really stamp our authority on this area right from the off. The wingers will be asked to vary the attack between taking the full backs on the outside, or cutting inside. Whatever seems right at the moment – in order to carve up their defence. The pace of the wingers will cause a lot of headaches and the ability of both wingers and the AM to interchange positions will be something we will use to add to the confusion in the opposition ranks. We will look for our midfield to make it very difficult for them to link up play between their midfield and the front men – hopefully meaning their attack will not see a whole lot of the ball.
Without the ball we will look to White and the wingers/CF to press and give the opposition no space at all to work in. When in possession we will take our time and keep our passing neat and simple. We will be looking for White (supported by Gómez) to orchestrate our attacks. He will be the main man in creating the openings. We will look to our speed outside and on the overlap as well as the cleverness of White in playing the ball through and behind the defenders giving our attacking widemen and CF plenty of ammunition to get on the end of.
Free Kicks/Corners - White, Guilherme and Prestianni with Murillo, Collins and Evanilson expected to go up for attacking set plays.
Penalties - Evanilson or Guilherme
SUBS
If Winning (on 75 mins) – Quansah for Murillo and Enciso for Prestianni – (Straight Swap)
If losing (on 70 mins) – Leonardo for Moscardo, and Enciso for Prestianni (Switch to attacking 4-1-3-2):
-------------Gómez
Enciso----White------Guilherme
--Evanilson --Leonardo
Europa League Semi Final Second Leg
Tottenham Hotspur v BRENTFORD
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Konrad Laimer
Hiroki Ito
Taylor Harwood-Bellis (sold)
Christoph Baumgartner
_________________🇩🇰Hermansen
🇯🇵Sugawara__🇦🇹Danso__🏴Greaves__🇭🇺Kerkez
_____________🇦🇹Seiwald____🇲🇦Richardson
___________🇭🇺Szoboszlai____🏴Gomes
____________🇧🇪Openda_______🇵🇹Jota
Subs
🇩🇰 Jørgensen
🇧🇦 Dedic
🏴 Henry
🏴 Morton
🇵🇹 Carvalho
🏴 Johnson
🇲🇽 Gimenez
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai
Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.
What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.
The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.
The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.
The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.
What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.
The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.
The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.
The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.
Subs on 70 mins
Dedic on for Sugawara
Johnson on for Jota
Gimenez on for Openda
4-3-3 High tempo
We play a fluid attacking team full of pace and power and a high tempo, dominate possession in cm with pace up top and width from fbs to stretch the game.
Olise and Williams starting high and wide on the wings, but with complete freedom in the final third.
Two Uruguayan warriors at centre mid, we have the quality at cm to dominate possession, and the energy to play at a high tempo. Ugarte and Valverde have the power and energy on the ball and off it to help our fbs driving down the wings, and support them defensively. When attacking, Ugarte and Valverde give freedom to Eze to attack. Maatsen and Trent bomb down the wings to a high wide position, allowing wingers freedom to come inside.
The fbs bombing forward to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat.
Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through them starting from the back, playing fast flowing football but varying the tempo when we need to slow down and regain control.
We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.
———————————— Alisson
Trent.A —— E.Militao —— C.Lukeba —— Maatsen
———————— Valverde——— Ugarte
——————————-—— E.Eze
— M.Olise ——————————————— Nico W. —
———————————— Osimhen
Subs. Sanchez, T.Hernandez, J.Cardoso, Mac Allister, Cherki, Kvatskhelia, V.Roque
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape. Olise drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the 3 cms narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Nico is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.
Militai the man-marker next to Lukeba who is free to use his pace and intelligence to sweep up. Ugarte as dm, Eze and Valverde either side of him, and just slightly ahead of him pressing the play in line of 3 cms. Olise zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Isak marks their deepest cm. Nico and Olise giving our cms ability to press and narrow to the side opposition are attacking. In zones to stop their attacking midfielders and allowing Ugarte to cover or step in if one cm needs to step out to press or to help the fb.
In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Stop them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
Attack
Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.
We have a fluid front three, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.
Subs.(Based on this tie only)
If winning or drawing after 68 mins bring on Cardoso for Ugarte. Power against tired legs.
If winning or drawing after 72 mins bring on Roque for Osimhen. Legs and trickery as space opens up in midfield.
If winning after after 75 mins bring on Cherki for Olise.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Kvaratskhelia and Theo for Trent and Maatsen. 3-5-2. Kvaratskhelia up top.
If losing
Europa League Final
BRENTFORD v Watford
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Fábio Carvalho
Filip Jørgensen
Amar Dedic
Nicolas Seiwald
_______________🇩🇰Hermansen
🇯🇵Sugawara__🇰🇷Kim___🇯🇵Ito___🇭🇺Kerkez
__________🇳🇱Reijnders____🇦🇹Laimer
________🇭🇺Szoboszlai____🇦🇹Baumgartner
__________🇧🇪Openda_______🇵🇹Jota
Subs
🇩🇰 Schmeichel
🇵🇱 Zalewski
🇮🇹 Ricci
🇲🇦 Richardson
🏴 Gomes
🏴 Johnson
🇲🇽 Gimenez
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai
Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.
What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.
The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.
The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.
The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.
What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.
The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.
The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.
The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.
Subs if winning on 70 mins
Richardson on for Sugawara (Laimer to RB)
Gimenez on for Openda
If the opposition subsequently score any time beyond 70 mins when we were originally ahead then:
Johnson on for Baumgartner
Subs if drawing/loosing on 70 mins
Zalewski on for Kerkez
Johnson on for Jota
Gimenez on for Openda
--------------------- E.Martinez ---------------------
B.White -- Cr. Romero -- Ruben Dias -- Mendes
----------- Tchouameni --- Declan Rice -----------
-- A.Guler ---------- K.Yildiz ---------- Mbappe --
----------------------- Haaland ----------------------
Setford, T.Mitchell, E.Fernandez, Koopmeiners, R.Leao, M.Soule, Konate
Champions League Final, a good chance with Leicester hit by some significant injuries. we need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. Yes they are a good side but they are vulnerable at right fullback where we look to expose them with Mbappe. We have plenty pace, power and most importantly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly.
Our fullbacks will come inside to help with the extra man advantage in midfield, I want Rice taking care of the AM, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the likes of Rice and Tchouameni with that extra midfielder so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, Mendes and Mbappe obvs have an understanding so Mendes look to push wide allowing Mbappe to cut inside, one twos which will either get Mendes out wide to cross in or Mbappe to get into the box with a nice slide rule pass, White will likely look for more of a long ball over to utilise Guler pace to beat the defenders.
Tchouameni and Rice must be patient, as solid a midfield two as you will see in the league, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Rice doing the marking job on the most advanced midfielder opposition may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, when attacking Rice sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our 2/3 CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. Tchouameni will push a further forward sitting just behind Yildiz, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area be creative with his passing, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Maybe a surprise selection in Yildiz but he is a game changer with his skill and powerful running, he is the link between midfield and attack, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play as we are definitely up against it, let the pass go as players come onto him, as this will take them out them game and less for our attackers to worry about, plenty options for him to aim for if he decides not to go for goal himself and he is always good for a goal or two. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediate so will always help out the midfield by closing down any runners from deep and look to block the ball/player from advancing, look to start attacks very quickly.
Our wingers are extremely quick and tricky, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack, make sure their fullbacks attacks are nulified just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, Guler and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I want Guler especially cutting inside and onto his stronger left foot. I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Yildiz and trhe midfield more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power/pace/movement, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Yildiz, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.
Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Mbappe
Subs -
Losing -
65 Mins - R.Leao for Yildiz, we go 442/424 with Leao going to LW and Mbappe into a central position
75 Mins - Koopmeiners for Mendes now pushing we go 3412, Koops into a No.10, M.Soule for Guler
Winning -
75 Mins - T.Mitchell for Mendes, a solid LB will be told to sit and only atack when under no threat
80 Mins - Enzo for Yildiz, he drops beside Tchouameni with Rice into a DM role
84 Mins - Konate for Haaland, youngster will chase everythig down, still a threat if needed
Drawing -
65 Mins - Koopmeiners for Yildiz, Soule for Guler, Koops has a magnificent passing range and obvs a huge goal threat.
75 Mins - Leao for Haaland, he goes LW, Mbappe up top, using more pace v tiring defenders
Watford: Europa League Final vs Brentford
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: André
Team:
-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley----Collins--Murillo----Vanderlan
-------------------André
--------------Jones---Gómez
Enciso------------------------------Edwards
------------------Evanilson
SUBS: Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Redondo, Price, Guilherme, Leonardo
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: Verbruggen is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. 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: André 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. Jones and Gómez will play just in front of André. Jones will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Gómez 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 Enciso and Edwards 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 Gómez, Jones and Evanilson 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 Jones may sit a bit deeper allowing Gómez 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.
Evanilson 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: Jones, Edwards or Enciso with Collins, Murillo and Evanilson to offer an aerial threat. Gómez and Edwards (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Evanilson
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Leonardo for Evanilson and Guilherme for Enciso, 2 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 70 minutes) Guilherme for Jones and Leonardo for Enciso. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Leonardo and Giovani offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
----------------André
Guilherme--Gómez--- Edwards
------Evanilson---Leonardo
3-6-1 High tempo
We play a fluid attacking team full of pace, power and a high tempo, dominate possession with pace up top and width from wingers to stretch the game. Fan has been running scared looking for a walkover and too handicap us, so we go and play attacking 100mph football. Their attackers are poor defensively, so we take advantage.
A change in shape to make us more attacking, dominate the midfield and target their fbs with our wingers. What is a 3-6-1 in name will turn into a 3-5-2, Kvarat and Foden playing fluid role, one will go deep and one will go up to play as a second forward. Effectively looking to force Chelsea to go man for man at the back, and with the trickery and pace of our attackers to get the better.
With all the cbs strong on the ball and comfortable stepping into midfield, they help the cms dominate possession. The 3 cbs and two strong defensive cms give the rest of the team freedom to attack without leaving us exposed against Chelsea’s pace in attack.
The Chelsea wingers naturally come inside, so the 3rd cbs help guard against this threat. We target Chelsea’s lb, likely with Mbappe ahead of him, they are weaker defensively here. Olise and Foden help target this area.
The cbs, Rodri and Valverde have the quality to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Both cms have the energy and creativity on the ball to help our attacks going forward, while staying strong defensively.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden and Nico (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully Chelsea.
Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through them starting from the back, playing fast flowing football but varying the tempo when we need to slow down and regain control.
We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.
——————————————- Alisson
————— E.Militao —— Marquinhos —— Lukeba
—————————— Valverde —— Rodri
Olise —————— Foden ——— Kvaratskhelia——— Nico.W
—————————————— Osimhen
Subs. Sanchez, Theo.H, Livramento, Ugarte, Eze, Gyokeres, Isak
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else gets into a narrow rigid 3-2-4-1 formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape. The 4 narrow to the side of play Chelsea have the ball, when their defence have the ball we look to stay ball side of their cms, wingers narrowing to go man for man bar Foden who occupies the space between their deepest cm and their defence. Continuing to drop back deeper in this shape, pressing hard, with Valverde behind pressing any breakthroughs and Rodri zonal in the middle allowing one of the cbs to break wide if the they go long.
Marquinhos the man-marker next to Militao and Lukeba who are free to use their intelligence and pace to sweep up. If we are deeper, the winger on the opposite side of play drops to fb to guard the back post.
In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Stop them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
Attack
Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.
We have a fluid attack, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.
Subs.
If winning after 68 mins bring on Theo and Livramento for Nico and Olise. Fresh legs and strength in demanding roles.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Eze for Foden, fresh legs and gives more control as more of a cm.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Isak for Osimhen.
If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Isak and Livramento for Kvaratskhelia and Olise. 3-5-2. Two big men up top and a rwb who will swing in crosses. Go direct.
If drawing or losing after 80 mins bring on Gyokeres for Foden. 3-4-3. Route one. Narrow front 3, Isak left, Gyokeres right.
------------------- E.Martinez --------------------
B.White - Cr. Romero - Ruben Dias - Mendes
---------- Tchouameni -- Declan Rice ----------
A.Guler ----------- K.Yildiz ------------ Mbappe
--------------------- Haaland ----------------------
Setford, R.Lewis, Koopmeiners, A.Varela, M.Soule, R.Leao, Omorodion
We need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. We have plenty pace, power and most importantly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly.
Our fullbacks will come inside to help with the extra man advantage in midfield, I want Rice taking care of the AM, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the likes of Rice and Tchouameni with that extra midfielder so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, Mendes and Mbappe obvs have an understanding so Mendes look to push wide allowing Mbappe to cut inside, one twos which will either get Mendes out wide to cross in or Mbappe to get into the box with a nice slide rule pass, White will likely look for more of a long ball over to utilise Guler pace to beat the defenders.
Tchouameni and Rice must be patient, as solid a midfield two as you will see in the league, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Rice doing the marking job on the most advanced midfielder opposition may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, when attacking Rice sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our 2/3 CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. Tchouameni will push a further forward sitting just behind Yildiz, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area be creative with his passing, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Yildiz is a game changer with his skill and powerful running, he is the link between midfield and attack, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play as we are definitely up against it, let the pass go as players come onto him, as this will take them out them game and less for our attackers to worry about, plenty options for him to aim for if he decides not to go for goal himself and he is always good for a goal or two. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediate so will always help out the midfield by closing down any runners from deep and look to block the ball/player from advancing, look to start attacks very quickly.
Our wingers are extremely quick and tricky, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack, make sure their fullbacks attacks are nulified just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, Guler and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I want Guler especially cutting inside and onto his stronger left foot. I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Yildiz and trhe midfield more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power/pace/movement, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Yildiz, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.
Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Mbappe
Losing -
65 Mins - Omorodion for Yildiz 442/424 adding a lot of power up top, M.Soule for Guler like for like
75 Mins - Leao for Mendes, White to RCB,Leao to LW, Mabppe up top 343 attacking
Winning -
75 Mins - A.Varela for Yildiz, drops in to become the DM, all action, no messing
84 Mins - Omorodion for Haaland, R.Lewis for Guler
Drawing -
70 Mins - R.Lewis for B.White fresh legs, Leao for Haaland switch with Mbappe, Koopmeiners for Yildiz
BRENTFORD v Spurs
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Samuele Ricci
Brennan Johnson
Amar Dedic
Christoph Baumgartner
Leroy Sané
________________🇩🇰Hermansen
🇯🇵Sugawara__🇩🇪Tah__🇩🇪Schlotterbeck_🇭🇺Kerkez
____________🇦🇹Seiwald____🇦🇹Laimer
_________🇭🇺Szoboszlai_____🇳🇱Reijnders
__________🇧🇪Openda_______🇮🇹Retegui
Subs
🇩🇰 Filip Jørgensen
🇧🇪 Koni De Winter
🇯🇵 Hiroki Ito
🇲🇦 Amir Richardson
🇵🇹 Fábio Carvalho
🇲🇦 Abde Ezzalzouli
🏴 Eddie Nketiah
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai
Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.
What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.
The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.
The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.
The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.
What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.
The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.
The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.
The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.
Subs on 70 mins
Richardson on for Laimer
Ezzalzouli on for Reijnders
MAN UNITED vs Arsenal
---------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
-----------Diomamde--------Pacho--------Scalvini-----------
----------------------------------Camavinga-----------------------------------
Frimpong-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
---------------------------------------Palmer----------------------------------------
-----------------Saka------------Hojlund----------------Tel---------------
Subs - Mamardashvili, Gusto, Onana, Elliott, Bakayoko, Gittens, Sesko
CK'S - SAKA
FK'S - SAKA
PENALTIES - PALMER
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 back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. Diomande and Scalvinj will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to stop any attacks that go down their wings using their super human pace and tackling ability. Pacho in the middle will marshall the defence and look to work together with his fellow CB's to stop the oppo attackers. Stay compact and not too far from each other so we can deal with any crosses into the area etc. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.
WINGBACKS
Frimpong and Barco are playing as wingbacks today. They will both have the freedom to bomb up and down their flanks. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM's will be helping you a lot aswell. Diomande and Hincapie will be ready as the outside CB's to help you clear up any loose balls etc. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. I want both wingbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..
Defence Mid
Camavinga
Camavinga will be the main enforcer to protect the defence and to control the central midfield. Just focus on defending as we have enough attacking talent. Cover the central areas in front of the defence and intercept/put in tackles when the oppo AM has the ball in a dangerois position. Play quick passes out to our attackers so we can launch a counter attack.
Wingers
Saka + Tel
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Saka will be looking to cut in from the right and Tel likewise who will cut in from the left. 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 into the centre of the pitch to the DM or play quick one two's with our wingbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for Hojlund to attack. 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
Cold Palmer
Palmer will be playing just behind Hojlund 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. Interchange with Saka from time to time to throw off the oppo.
Striker
Hojlund
Hojlund will be leading the line for us today. He has got the pace and strength to play the role and he will have plenty of support in attack. Be vary of crosses into the box and try and get in front of your marker. Use your physical power to hold the ball up and to bring others into the game. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. Be vary of loose balls in the box so you can use your quick reactions to get to the ball before the oppo defenders.
Subs if LOSING BY 75MINS
Put on Gittens and Sesko for Tel and Hojlund to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
---------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
-----------Diomande---------Pacho------Scalvini----------
------------------------------------Cama--------------------------------------
Frimpong-----------------------------------------------------------Barco
-------------------------------------Palmer-----------------------------------
------------------Saka----------Sesko------------Gittens----------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Palmer and put on Onana in CM to offer more defensive protection and energy in the middle. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack.
----------------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
------------------Diomande-------Pacho--------Scalvini--------
Frimpong----------Camavinga--------Onana-----------Barco
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------Saka-------------Hojlund------------------Tel-------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Switch formation to 3412 to confuse the oppo. Bring on Bakayoko and Gittens for Saka and Tel.
------------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
---------------Diomande-------Pacho---------Scalvini-----------
------------------------Camavinga-------Onana-------------------------
Frimpong-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
--------------------------------------Palmer--------------------------------------
-----------------------------Sesko------------Hojlund-------------------------
Watford: League Week 1 HOME vs Newcastle
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: André
Team:
-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley----Collins--Murillo----Vanderlan
-------------------André
--------------Jones---Gómez
Enciso------------------------------Domínguez
-------------------Castro
SUBS: Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Redondo, Fernandes, Guilherme, Ferguson
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: Verbruggen is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. 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: André 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. Jones and Gómez will play just in front of André. Jones will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Gómez 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 Enciso and Domínguez 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 Gómez, Jones and Castro 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 Jones may sit a bit deeper allowing Gómez 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.
Castro 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: Jones, Domínguez or Enciso with Collins, Murillo and Castro to offer an aerial threat. Gómez and Domínguez (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Castro
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Ferguson for Castro and Guilherme for Enciso, 2 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 70 minutes) Guilherme for Jones and Ferguson for Enciso. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Ferguson and Giovani offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
----------------André
Guilherme--Gómez--- Domínguez
------Castro---Ferguson
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Tactics
Page 74 of 77
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posted on 15/8/24
NEWCASTLE UNITED v Man City
Injuries: Le Normand, Kovacic, Diaz, Toney
---------------------- Oblak
Walker - Tapsoba - Rudiger - Mendy
------------- Mainoo - Palhinha
---------- De Bruyne - Fernandes
-------------Alvarez - Kolo Muani
Subs: Trafford, Gomez, Merino, Paqueta, Kudus, Sane, Mudryk
----------------
A huge FA Cup final, Man City will be tough to beat, but our back four and midfield two should keep their attack at bay while causing problems of our own to their defence.
We are playing a 4-2-2-2 today, Oblak in goal, Rudiger and Tapsoba at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ferland Mendy at fullback, Palhinha and Mainoo the two holding in midfield, with Kevin De Bruyne and Bruno Fernandes ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, and Julian Alvarez upfront with Randal Kolo Muani.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. City are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Alvarez and Kolo Muani.
Rudiger/Tapsoba - Rudiger to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Tapsoba to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to their runners from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Walker/Mendy - Both of you to force the City attacking midfielders out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Palhinha and Mainoo to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap De Bruyne/Fernandes as they will try to drag the fullback infield, and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Alvarez and Kolo Muani. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Palhinha/Mainoo - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent City's AM (most likely Odegaard) from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for each other, Walker and Mendy either side of you, and De Bruyne and Fernandes ahead of you. Alternate joining the attack but ensuring one of you stays back at all times.
De Bruyne/Fernandes - Playing as the AM's today, look to bridge the gap between midfield and attack. Without the ball form a midfield four alongside Mainoo and Palhinha, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Palhinha/Mainoo and look for Alvarez/Kolo Muani making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Play in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Mainoo/Palhinha, or for each other, or drag defenders out of position to create space for Alvarez/Kolo Muani to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Alvarez/Kolo Muani - You will be expected to occupy and stretch the City centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep and for each other. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to make alternate runs to keep their defence guessing, occasionally drop wide (one at a time) to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne/Fernandes to get forward into and more space for your strike partner. Expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/Fernandes/Mainoo, and don't be afraid to take chances first time to limit their defence being able to recover and block attempts.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: De Bruyne, Fernandes and Kolo Muani off, Merino, Kudus and Mudryk on. Change to a flat 4-5-1, Merino alongside Palhinha and Mainoo, Kudus and Mudryk to RW and LW, Alvarez down the middle. Absorb pressure, look to counter a City side chasing the game with our pace and fresh legs, ball retention is key to closing down the game. Utilise the pace and trickery of Kudus and Mudryk to create chances.
If drawing at 70 mins: De Bruyne and Mainoo off, Paqueta and Merino on. Like for like, same formation but with fresh legs and fresh ideas to force a winner. Paqueta alongside Fernandes at AM, Merino alongside Palhinha at CM.
If drawing at 119 mins: Mendy off, Sane on. Fill in at left back briefly, then you're there to take a penalty.
If losing at 70 mins: Mainoo, Palhinha and Tapsoba off, Paqueta, Kudus and Sane on. Change to 3-1-4-2, De Bruyne in the quarterback role. Push for goals.
----------------------- Oblak
--------Walker - Rudiger - Mendy
------------------- De Bruyne
Kudus - Paqueta - Fernandes - Sane
----------- Alvarez - Kolo Muani
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne, Fernandes or Merino in that order
Penalties: Fernandes or Alvarez in that order
Penalty shootout takers (based on "if drawing" scenario)
1. Fernandes
2. Alvarez
3. Rudiger
4. Sane
5. Kolo Muani
6. Paqueta
7. Palhinha
8. Walker
9. Merino
10. Tapsoba
11. Oblak
posted on 15/8/24
------------------------ 🇮🇪 Kelleher ---------------------------
------ 🇫🇷 Kounde --- 🇳🇱 Van Dijk --- 🇮🇹 Bastoni ---------
🇪🇸 Carvajal -- 🇪🇨 Caicedo --- 🇳🇱 X.Simons - 🇲🇦 Hakimi
------------------------ 🇳🇴 Ødegaard -------------------------
-------------- 🇷🇸 D.Vlahovic --- 🇫🇷 C.Nkunku -------------
Subs:
Timber, Van de Ven, Lavia, J.Gomes, Barcola, Garnacho, Zirkzee
Captain: Van Dijk
Free Kicks: Ødegaard
Penalties: Nkunku
Corners: Ødegaard
Cup final day and we look to finish the season with a bang as we go in search of more silverware with an attacking 3-4-1-2.
The beauty of this set up is that it offers great flexibility, the perfect blend of attacking finesse and defensive strength it gives us all the tools required to get the better of our opponents.
The opposition have some strong attackers however we look to snuff them out by playing a back 3 which turns into a back 5 when out of possession. We sit in giving them no space in behind, in addition to this we have a DM shielding the defence, offering additional support as we look to blunt their attack. Their forwards will be shackled by our back 3 whilst our wingbacks will work in tandem to stifle any attacks down the flank.
When in possession our wingbacks have license to get forward. As soon as we win back possession we spring from our defensive set up. Carvajal and Hakimi push forward, working in tandem with Odegaard and the advancing Simons we can create two on one’s against their fullbacks if their wingers don’t track back. Quick one two’s will pull them out of position as we cut through them in the final third. Our wingbacks will hug the touchline making the pitch as wide as possible.
As I alluded to above our set up enables us to have great flexibility ensuring we are no one trick ponies. If the opponents adjust their set up to stop us overwhelming them out wide by using their CM’s to support their fullbacks this opens up the middle of the field. The problem this will create for them is the little X factor we have in the middle, X by name X by nature Xavi Simons presence at CM creates the perfect little wrinkle for us to hit them from multiple angles. Out of possession Simons sits alongside Caicedo but in possession he has license to get forward. When he does our wingbacks will sit in, fresh from by bombarded down the flanks Newcastle will be expecting another flying attack out wide but instead we hit them through the middle. Simon’s pushes up alongside Odegaard as dual AM’s working in tandem with our front two of Vlahovic and Nkunku to cause havoc in the final third.
----------------- Kelleher
----- Kounde - Van Dijk - Bastoni
Carvajal ------ Caicedo ------ Hakimi
------ Odegaard ------ X.Simons
----------- Vlahovic - Nkunku
Essentially we force the opposition to pick their poison, risk being overwhelmed out wide by our attacking wingbacks or get exploited through the middle when Simons advances and we go with twin AM’s and dual strikers. In all sequences we ensure we have sufficient defensive cover with Caicedo shielding our defence.
Defence:
We go with a perfectly balanced back three, strong defensively but also with great ball players which will allow us to retain possession and play out from the back. If they play one up top then Van Dijk will mark, Kounde and Bastoni will act as cover and stay relatively centrally at all times picking up any additional forwards. We keep the central area’s compact making it extremely difficult for the opposition to have any sniff at goal.
Out of possession our wingbacks sit in giving us a solid back 5 and no space for the opposition in the final third. When in possession both Carvajal and Hakimi have license to push forward with both having great quality in the final third.
Midfield:
Caicedo will provide a bundle of energy in the middle. An all action player we rely on his fantastic tenacity and high level work rate 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. His role will be purely defensive as he offers another layer of protection in front of back three.
Simons will start alongside Caicedo providing us with another body in the middle. Great workrate he’ll hustle and bustle when we’re out of possession but in possession he will get forward and has great quality in the final third, capable of creating and scoring he’ll link up perfectly with our attacking trio.
Odegaard plays at #10. One of the most creative playmakers in the game he has the freedom to dictate as he pleases. Look for the runs out wide of our fullbacks or into play with Nkunku & Vlahovic up top. Both our forwards will be looking for the slide through ball in behind, quick one two’s in and around their box will open up space and if they back off and sit two deep the Norwegian is more than capable from curling home a pearler from the edge of the box.
Forwards:
We go with a deadly attacking duo up top. Nkunku will be the link up, quick feet and quality in tight spaces he has license to drift across the frontline. He’ll mix things up, showing feet one minute and then spinning off looking for the through ball from Odegaard in behind the next. He’ll also thrive off any any knockdowns from our big number 9 beside him.
Vlahovic gives us that aerial presence up top. Any balls into him will stick and Nkunku will feast off the chances created by his knockdowns or flick on’s. One on one he’s a real handful capable of shrugging off defenders and is a deadly finisher. When we have it out wide he’ll be looking to attack the box with the big man deadly in the air. Goals win games and with the creativity around him we feel he and Nkunku offer us the firepower to bring trophy home.
Subs:
If winning:
70 mins: Carvajal off, Timber on. Fresh legs at RWB.
75 mins: Simons off, Joao Gomes on. Dual DM’s shielding our defence.
85 mins: Nkunku off, Garnacho on. With the opposition pushing Garnacho offers us the perfect counter attacking threat to seal the win.
If drawing/losing:
70 mins: Carvajal off, Garnacho on. 4-3-3 with Kounde moving to RB and Garnacho up top alongside our forwards.
80 mins: Simons & Hakimi off, Barcola & Lavia on. Pep Guardiola inspired 3-2-3-2 as we go for the win.
-------------- Kelleher
-- Kounde -- Van Dijk -- Bastoni
-------- Caicedo -- Lavia
Garnacho - Odegaard - Barcola
--------- Vlahovic -- Nkunku
posted on 21/8/24
Watford – Europa League Semi Vs Villa
Captain – André
Vice Captain – Collins
-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley--Collins--Murillo--Vanderlan
--------------André--Jones
Prestianni-------White-------Edwards
-------------------Evanilson
SUBS – Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Redondo, Gómez, Enciso, Leonardo
Today we will concentrate on doing what we do best and playing to our strengths – keeping hold of the ball and working it simply around the park. Nothing flash or risky – just possession football. Patience could be the key and if we keep it tight we have the personnel to get us a goal. We have pace to move the ball forward very quickly and enough pace to regain our shape if the opposition turn it around and try and counter us. This is a formation that can slot into a number of systems. We can easily slip into a 4-3-3, 4-5-1 or a 4-4-2 depending on how the match pans out. When defending it will be more of a defensive 4-4-2 with Jones and André holding in the middle with White just in front pressing the opposition and making a nuisance of himself. The whole team will sit that wee bit deeper but always ready for any possible counter.
With the ability of our team to change formation depending on the circumstances I think we have enough in midfield and out wide to starve them from the ball. We will be looking to get bodies in the box. With fast and fluid attacking play Evanilson will always have support in this area and our wide men will always have a target to get the ball in to. With the trickery of White, Prestianni and Edwards, the opposition can always expect the unexpected when we are on the attack. We will not be afraid to hit them on the counter as with our full backs and wingers we have enough speed and skill to beat most teams. We will also be very respectful of what the opposition can do and will look to press them with urgency when we are looking the ball. We will take the risks we need to open them up ONLY when the correct chance arises. In saying that we will have a measured approach and if they try to play with a high tempo we will match that. We are not here to let them dictate the game. We will play it how we want to play and we will have a right go at them.
We will use André and Jones to dictate the tempo of the play to suit our moment. I think with our mobility and physicality we can really stamp our authority on this area right from the off. The wingers will be asked to vary the attack between taking the full backs on the outside, or cutting inside. Whatever seems right at the moment – in order to carve up their defence. The pace of the wingers will cause a lot of headaches and the ability of both wingers and the AM to interchange positions will be something we will use to add to the confusion in the opposition ranks. We will look for our midfield to make it very difficult for them to link up play between their midfield and the front men – hopefully meaning their attack will not see a whole lot of the ball.
Without the ball we will look to White and the wingers/CF to press and give the opposition no space at all to work in. When in possession we will take our time and keep our passing neat and simple. We will be looking for White (supported by Jones) to orchestrate our attacks. He will be the main man in creating the openings. We will look to our speed outside and on the overlap as well as the cleverness of White in playing the ball through and behind the defenders giving our attacking widemen and CF plenty of ammunition to get on the end of.
Free Kicks/Corners - White, Edwards and Prestianni with Murillo, Collins and Evanilson expected to go up for attacking set plays.
Penalties - Evanilson or Edwards
SUBS
If Winning (on 75 mins) – Quansah for Murillo and Enciso for Prestianni – (Straight Swap)
If losing (on 70 mins) – Leonardo for André, and Enciso for Prestianni (Switch to attacking 4-1-3-2):
-------------Jones
Enciso----White------Edwards
--Evanilson --Leonardo
posted on 21/8/24
Watford – Europa League Final (not that we’ll reach it)
Captain – Moscardo
Vice Captain – Collins
-----------------Verbruggen
Wesley--Collins--Murillo--Vanderlan
--------------Moscardo--Gómez
Prestianni-------White-------Guilherme
-------------------Evanilson
SUBS – Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Redondo, Fernandes, Enciso, Leonardo
Today we will concentrate on doing what we do best and playing to our strengths – keeping hold of the ball and working it simply around the park. Nothing flash or risky – just possession football. Patience could be the key and if we keep it tight we have the personnel to get us a goal. We have pace to move the ball forward very quickly and enough pace to regain our shape if the opposition turn it around and try and counter us. This is a formation that can slot into a number of systems. We can easily slip into a 4-3-3, 4-5-1 or a 4-4-2 depending on how the match pans out. When defending it will be more of a defensive 4-4-2 with Gómez and Moscardo holding in the middle with White just in front pressing the opposition and making a nuisance of himself. The whole team will sit that wee bit deeper but always ready for any possible counter.
With the ability of our team to change formation depending on the circumstances I think we have enough in midfield and out wide to starve them from the ball. We will be looking to get bodies in the box. With fast and fluid attacking play Evanilson will always have support in this area and our wide men will always have a target to get the ball in to. With the trickery of White, Prestianni and Guilherme, the opposition can always expect the unexpected when we are on the attack. We will not be afraid to hit them on the counter as with our full backs and wingers we have enough speed and skill to beat most teams. We will also be very respectful of what the opposition can do and will look to press them with urgency when we are looking the ball. We will take the risks we need to open them up ONLY when the correct chance arises. In saying that we will have a measured approach and if they try to play with a high tempo we will match that. We are not here to let them dictate the game. We will play it how we want to play and we will have a right go at them.
We will use Moscardo and Gómez to dictate the tempo of the play to suit our moment. I think with our mobility and physicality we can really stamp our authority on this area right from the off. The wingers will be asked to vary the attack between taking the full backs on the outside, or cutting inside. Whatever seems right at the moment – in order to carve up their defence. The pace of the wingers will cause a lot of headaches and the ability of both wingers and the AM to interchange positions will be something we will use to add to the confusion in the opposition ranks. We will look for our midfield to make it very difficult for them to link up play between their midfield and the front men – hopefully meaning their attack will not see a whole lot of the ball.
Without the ball we will look to White and the wingers/CF to press and give the opposition no space at all to work in. When in possession we will take our time and keep our passing neat and simple. We will be looking for White (supported by Gómez) to orchestrate our attacks. He will be the main man in creating the openings. We will look to our speed outside and on the overlap as well as the cleverness of White in playing the ball through and behind the defenders giving our attacking widemen and CF plenty of ammunition to get on the end of.
Free Kicks/Corners - White, Guilherme and Prestianni with Murillo, Collins and Evanilson expected to go up for attacking set plays.
Penalties - Evanilson or Guilherme
SUBS
If Winning (on 75 mins) – Quansah for Murillo and Enciso for Prestianni – (Straight Swap)
If losing (on 70 mins) – Leonardo for Moscardo, and Enciso for Prestianni (Switch to attacking 4-1-3-2):
-------------Gómez
Enciso----White------Guilherme
--Evanilson --Leonardo
posted on 21/8/24
Watford: League Week 1 AWAY to Leicester
Captain: André
Vice-Captain: Verbruggen
----------------Verbruggen
Bradley---Collins---Murillo--Vanderlan
--------------André--Jones
-------------------Ensico
Alisson-----------------------------Edwards
-----------------Evanilson
SUBS: Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Moscardo, Gómez, Guilherme, Ferguson
SUMMARY: This week we go with a 4-3-3 set up although we will be a tad more conservative and operate with André as the holding/defensive midfielder who will be complimented with an energetic box to box midfielder (Jones). In front of them Ensico 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’ Jones will also be allowed the freedom (when the time arises) to link with Ensico 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: Verbruggen is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. 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 André as the one holding/defensive midfielder. 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 (Jones). 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 Ensico will operate as the link between midfield and attack. He will be our creator and can find that magic pass to break open a defence and release one of our front three.
Wingers/Centre Forward: When in possession both Alisson and Edwards 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 Ensico, Jones and Evanilson 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 Jones may sit a bit deeper allowing Ensico 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.
Evanilson 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: Ensico, Edwards or Alisson with Collins, Murillo and Evanilson to offer an aerial threat. Ensico and Edwards (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Substitutions: (80 mins) If winning, then 3 like for like subs – Quansah for Collins, Moscardo for André and Ferguson for Evanilson.
If losing (60 mins) then switch to a 4-1-3-2 and replace Jones with Ferguson and Alisson with Guilherme. 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.
--------------André
Guilherme---Ensico---Edwards
--------Ferguson--Evanilson
posted on 24/8/24
------------------------- Andreev -------------------------
J.Kimmich - Kim Min-jae - Marc Guehi - Mittlestadt
---------------- B.Kamara --- F. de Jong ----------------
-- F. Torres ---------- Goncalves ---------- Williams --
------------------------ O.Watkins ------------------------
Oliwier Zych(youth), Adarabioyo, Robertson, Baleba, M.Rogers, J.David, Moukoko
A solid back 4 with Guehi looking to pick up the main striker, he is quick and powerful CB to come against, so will look to bully the striker, be on his toes at all times looking to intercept and ball through to No.9 nip in ahead when he can but nothing rash so he doesnt lose out in possession. Kim alongside, again a very tough, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Guehi if needed or pick up a SS/AM, Both can play it out and very good on the ball so no need for rash punts up field unless tequired and no other option, will look to play it to the fullbacks or the midfielders ahead
Fullbacks will attack at the same time look for the one/two with the winger ahead but will time these and not bomb forward willy nilly, Mittlestadt over lapping allowing Williams to come inside, or just play him, can also use the CMs for quick passing to get the winger passed the opposition fullbacks,Kimmich will come inside alot to make up a midfield 3 to opush on centrally. defensively, stay strong, keep the wingers to the outside away from danger, try and keep them on there 'bad' foot so they find it difficult to get a cross in, I do not want to see my defenders dive in, so stay tall and use upper body strength to keep there chances to a minimum. This is a solid back 4 who will be difficult to attack, must stay focussed.
The 2 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Kamara is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, Kamara will be there snapping at his heals, de Jong is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Kamara making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball.
Pote in an AM/free role/SS basically anywhere across the line where he will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence just hassle the midfield/defenders and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.
Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks, Ferran comes inside alot, Nico Williams to the outside, at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, always dragging players away to make space for himself and others, getting into dangerous positions waiting for the ball to come his way, he makes runs other forwards dont he has the intelligence find the space for others to find, he should get plenty supply, he doesnt defend, no need too, if he stays up top this will stop their defenders moving forward especially with the 3 behind buzzing around.
Captain - Kimmich
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - de Jong
Corners - de Jong
Losing -
65 Mins - Moukoko for Goncalves 442 a lethal striker needs only one chance, M.Rogers for Williams fresh quick on the left
75 Mins - J.David for Mittlestadt, go up top 343
Winning -
75 Mins - Baleba for Goncalves and into a 451 formation
83 Mins - J.David for Watkins, Rogers for Williams
Drawing -
70 Mins - J.David for Goncalves, Rogers for Williams, Moukoko for Watkins
posted on 24/8/24
Chelsea v NEWCASTLE UNITED
Injuries: Diaz, Lima, Sane, Mendy
------------------------- Oblak
Walker - Le Normand - Rudiger - Chilwell
--------------- Mainoo - Palhinha
Kudus ---------- De Bruyne ---------- Mitoma
------------------------Alvarez
Subs: Pickford, Couto, Dorgu, Kovacic, Paqueta, Fernandes, Kolo Muani
----------------
Champions League semi final, first leg. You can't win a two legged tie in the first leg but you can definitely lose it, so it's important to stay compact in midfield and utilise our attacking strengths to get at Chelsea.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 today, Oblak in goal, Rudiger and Le Normand at centreback, Kyle Walker and Ben Chilwell at fullback, Palhinha and Mainoo the two holding in midfield, Kevin De Bruyne with Kudus and Mitoma either side of him, and Julian Alvarez upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Chelsea are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Oblak - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Alvarez.
Rudiger/Le Normand - Rudiger to mark Haaland, bully him like you usually do, and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Le Normand to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to their runners from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Walker/Chilwell - Both of you to force the Chelsea wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. Walker to pay special attention to Mbappe, as one of the few Defenders who can match his pace. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Palhinha and Mainoo to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Kudus/Mitoma as they will try to drag the fullback infield, and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Alvarez. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Palhinha/Mainoo - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Chelsea's AM (most likely Bellingham) from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for each other, Walker and Mendy either side of you, and De Bruyne ahead of you. Alternate joining the attack but ensuring one of you stays back at all times.
De Bruyne - Playing as the AM today, look to bridge the gap between midfield and attack. Without the ball form a midfield three alongside Mainoo and Palhinha, in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Walker/Mendy/Palhinha/Mainoo and look for Alvarez/Kudus/Mitoma making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Play in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Mainoo/Palhinha, or for each other, or drag defenders out of position to create space for Alvarez/Kudus/Mitoma to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Kudus/Mitoma - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Walker and Chilwell overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Alvarez and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with De Bruyne will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Alvarez's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of De Bruyne, Palhinha and Mainoo to make it hard for Chelsea to break us down.
Alvarez - You will be expected to occupy and stretch the Chelsea centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep and for each other. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Look to make alternate runs to keep their defence guessing, occasionally drop wide to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for De Bruyne/Kudus/Mitoma to get forward into and more space for your strike partner. Expect plenty of through balls from De Bruyne/Mainoo, and don't be afraid to take chances first time to limit their defence being able to recover and block attempts.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: De Bruyne, Kudus and Mitoma off, Kovacic, Couto and Dorgu on. Change to a flat 4-5-1, Kovacic alongside Palhinha and Mainoo in midfield, Couto and Dorgu to RM and LM, and Alvarez down the middle. Absorb pressure, look to counter a Chelsea side chasing the game with our pace and fresh legs, ball retention is key to closing down the game. Couto and Dorgu being naturally wingbacks means we can double up on Chelsea's wingers when we are out of possession.
If drawing or losing at 70 mins: De Bruyne and Mainoo off, Fernandes and Merino on. Like for like, same formation but with fresh legs and fresh ideas to force a goal. Fernandes at AM, Merino alongside Palhinha at CM.
Setpieces:
Corners: De Bruyne, Fernandes or Couto in that order
Penalties: Fernandes or Alvarez in that order
posted on 24/8/24
Brentford v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Injuries: Riad, Pope, Gallagher, Cancelo
--------------------- Ederson
Porro - De Ligt - Skriniar - Grimaldo
------------ D Luiz - Zubimendi
Dembele ------- B Silva -------- Gnabry
‐---------------------- Kane
Subs: Ramsdale, Ake, Fofana, Maddison, Kulusevski, Rashford, Guirassy
Europa League semi final, first leg. You can't win a two legged tie in the first leg but you can definitely lose it, so it's important to stay compact in midfield and utilise our attacking strengths to get at Brentford.
We are playing a 4-2-3-1 in possession and a 4-5-1 out of possession, Ederson in goal, De Ligt and Skriniar at centreback, Porro and Grimaldo at fullback, Douglas Luiz and Zubimendi as a double pivot with Bernardo Silva ahead of them transitioning from midfield to attack, with Dembele and Gnabry either side of Harry Kane upfront.
This game is about controlling the tempo and giving us the best chance of getting the win today. Brentford are going to fight hard and our best hope is to be strong, disciplined and keep our concentration levels at maximum.
Ederson - Distribute from the back to the fullbacks/CM's, stay in communication with your defence throughout, be wary of long range efforts and ensure you stay big for any one on ones. On occasion go long for Kane.
De Ligt/Skriniar - De Ligt to mark their stiker, bully him and force him high up the pitch thus limiting his impact close to goal, and Skriniar to be the spare man, be first to the second ball and to their runners from midfield. When in possession bring the ball out of defence and use the midfielders ahead of you to help us play out from the back. Both of you go forward for setpieces.
Porro/Grimaldo - Both of you to force the Brentford wingers out wide, do not allow them to come inside as this will cause more problems for our midfield. They will want to cut inside so force them outside and block their crosses at source. They will try to create problems infield so its vital you only show them down the wing. If they play a diamond with no wingers you will need to form a narrow back four with the CB's and leave no spaces in behind. When we have the ball in our own half, move infield either side of Luiz and Zubimendi to give them passing options, in attack push forward and overlap Dembele and Gnabry as they will try to drag the fullback infield, and you will provide the overlap to either create space or supply crosses into the area for Kane, and link with Bernardo Silva. You will need to track back very quickly to ensure we don't get caught on the break.
Luiz/Zubimendi - Playing in front of the back four, patrol the midfield and prevent Brentford from being able to play in the gaps between midfield and defence. Cut passing lanes, and utilise your physicality when required. In possession, look for Porro and Grimaldo either side of you, and Bernardo ahead of you. Both playing in a box to box role, join in with attacks but one of you to always stay back, the other to get back quickly.
Bernardo Silva - Playing as our main AM when in possession, without the ball form a midfield trio with Luiz and Zubimendi, but in possession you both have the freedom to be creative, link the defence and attack, and be a match winner. Pick up the ball from Porro/Grimaldo/Luiz/Zubimendi, and look for Dembele/Gnabry/Kane making runs, ball retention is key to us winning today. Utilise Luiz/Zubimendi playing in the gaps, by making runs you can either drag midfielders out of position to leave more space for Luiz/Zubimendi, or defenders out of position to create space for Dembele/Gnabry/Kane to move into and have chances. In possession look for the final ball, but don't force it. Ball retention is still key.
Dembele/Gnabry - Both playing as inverted wingers, you will have Porro and Grimaldo overlapping giving you the chance to cut inside and get shots in. Look to supply Kane and the advancing midfielders with chances, and also provide yourselves with chances. Link up with Luiz, Zubimendi and Bernardo will be vital, and look to capitalise on the space Kane's presence will create for you. Without the ball, drop back to form a midfield five either side of Luiz, Zubimendi and Bernardo to make it hard for Brentford to break us down.
Kane - You will be expected to occupy the Brentford centrebacks, hold up possession and look to turn the defender and shoot. Be strong in the air and look for your teammates trying to pick you out from deep. Shoot on sight. Stay on the last defender's shoulder for any passes in behind. Try and swap with Dembele and Gnabry on occasion to drag the centre backs apart and leave space for Luiz/Zubimendi/Bernardo to get forward into. Expect plenty of through balls from Luiz/Zubimendi/Bernardo, and don't be afraid to take chances first time to limit their defence being able to recover and block attempts.
------------------
Substitutions;
If winning at 70 mins: Bernardo, Gnabry and Kane off, Fofana, Rashford and Guirassy on. Flat 4-5-1, Zubimendi, Luiz and Fofana the midfield wall, Rashford to LW, Guirassy upfront. Absorb pressure and strike on the break with the pace and fresh legs of Dembele/Rashford/Guirassy.
If drawing or losing at 70 mins: Dembele, Gnabry and Kane off, Kulusevski, Rashford and Guirassy on. Same system, but a fresh front three with Kulusevski RW, Rashford LW and Guirassy upfront, to get at the tiring Brentford backline.
Setpieces:
Corners: Bernardo or Luiz in that order
Penalties: Kane or Guirassy in that order
posted on 24/8/24
4-3-1-2 High tempo
We play a fluid attacking team full of pace and power and a high tempo, dominate possession in cm with pace up top and width from fbs to stretch the game. Control the midfield and bully City’s kids, in open play and set pieces.
Foden in a free role in attack, we look to expose the space between their defence and midfield. A midfield 3 that are very strong defensively providing great cover for our attacking fbs.
Musiala, Rodri and Valverde have the quality at cm to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Valverde and Musiala have the power, energy and quality on the ball to play box to box roles, Rodri as the sitting cm providing cover and controlling the tempo of the game. When attacking down the right Musiala comes inside next to Rodri, giving Valverde freedom to attack and link with Trent, Foden and Osimhen. Vice versa happens on the other side.
The cm coming across next to Rodri, provide a duo to control midfield and keep possession, defensively providing great cover for the attacking fbs. The fbs bombing forward to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate. Foden with complete freedom to come deep, wide or go beyond the cfs.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden and Trent (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully City.
Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through them starting from the back, playing fast flowing football but varying the tempo when we need to slow down and regain control.
We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.
————————————— Alisson
Trent.A —— Marquinhos —— Gvardiol —— Theo.H
—————- Valverde —— Rodri —— Musiala
————————————— P.Foden ——————
————————- Osimhen ——— Isak
Subs. Sanchez, Militao, Ugarte, Mac Allister, Olise, Gordon, Kvaratskhelia
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape. Isak drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the 3 cms narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Foden is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.
Gvardiol the man-marker next to Marquinhos who is free to use his intelligence to sweep up. Rodri as dm, Valverde and Musiala either side of him, and just slightly ahead of him pressing the play in line of 3 cms. Foden zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Isak marks their deepest cm. Isak and Foden giving our cms ability to press and narrow to the side opposition are attacking. In zones to stop their attacking midfielders and allowing Rodri to cover or step in if one cm needs to step out to press or to help the fb.
In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options.
Attack
Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.
We play a fluid front three, who switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This will help the players to get away from their markers, and create space.
Subs.
If winning after 68 mins bring on Kvatskhelia for Osimhen. Pace, power, trickery against tired legs.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Mac Allister for Musiala.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Militao for Trent.
If losing or drawing after 70 mins bring on Olise for Trent. 3-5-2. Theo lcb. Olise right, Musiala left. Foden CAM, Valverde cm next to Rodri.
If losing or drawing after 75 mins bring on Kvaratskhelia for Foden and Gordon for Musiala, fresh pace and trickery.
posted on 24/8/24
---------------------- E.Martinez -----------------------
Ben White - Ruben Dias - Pau. Torres - N. Mendes
------------ Tchouameni --- Declan. Rice ------------
--------------------- J.Bellingham ----------------------
--- M.Soule -------------------------------- Mbappe ---
----------------------- E.Haaland ------------------------
T.Setford, T.Mitchell, A.Varela, Koopmeiners, A.Guler, K.Yildiz, Ramos
Without the ball to press
---------------------- E.Martinez -----------------------
-------------- Ruben Dias - Pau. Torres --------------
-- Ben White ----- Declan. Rice ----- N. Mendes --
------------ Tchouameni --- J.Bellingham -----------
--- M.Soule -------------------------------- Mbappe ---
----------------------- E.Haaland -----------------------
we need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. Yes they are a good side but they are vulnerable at left fullback where we look to expose them with M.Soule. We have plenty pace, power and most importantly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly.
Our fullback will come inside to help with the extra man advantage in midfield, I want Rice taking care of the AM, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the likes of Rice and Tchouameni with that extra midfielder so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, Mendes and Mbappe obvs have an understanding so Mendes look to push wide allowing Mbappe to cut inside, one twos which will either get Mendes out wide to cross in or Mbappe to get into the box with a nice slide rule pass, White will likely look for more of a long ball over to utilise Soule pace to beat the defenders.
Tchouameni and Rice must be patient, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Rice doing the marking job on the most advanced midfielder opposition may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, he sometimes becomes a 3rd CB, when under attack with Jude dropping back also beside Tchouameni, when attacking Rice sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our two CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. Tchgouameni will push a further forward joining Jude, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area be creative with his passing, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Bellingham is the link between midfield and attack, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play as we are definitely up against it, let the pass go as players come onto him, as this will take them out them game and less for our attackers to worry about, plenty options for him to aim for if he decides not to go for goal himself and he is always good for a goal or two. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediate so will always help out Tchouameni and Rice so will drop back to help and as we win the ball he will then look to start attacks very quickly.
Our wingers are extremely quick and tricky, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack, make sure their fullbacks attacks are nulified just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, M.Soule and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I want Soule especielly cutting inside and onto his stronger left foot, Chilwell at LB is certainly a weak link for Mbappe to drive against, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Thouameni and Jude more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power/pace/movement, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Jude, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.
Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Bellingham
Subs:-
Losing -
65 Mins - K.Yildiz for Tchouameni, A.Guler for Soule, Guler like for like, Yildiz to LW, Mbappe up top, Bellingham into midfield beside Rice, young enthusiastic players on to make a name for themselves
75 Mins - Koopmeiners for Mendes go 3412 attack
Winning -
75 Mins - T.Mitchell for Mendes, A.Varela for Tchouameni, he takes over the DM role
83 Mins - K.Yildiz for Haaland, he goes LW, Mbappe up top
Drawing
70 Mins - Guler for Soule, Koopmeiners for Tchouameni, bit more creative from the centre
80 Mins - K.Yildiz for Haaland, he goes LW, Mbappe up top
posted on 24/8/24
Europa League Semi Final
BRENTFORD v Tottenham Hotspur
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Matt O'Riley
Milos Kerkez
Rico Henry
Hiroki Ito
_________________🇮🇹Vicario
🇯🇵Sugawara__🇦🇹Danso__🏴 Greaves__🇧🇦Dedic
___________🇦🇹Seiwald_____🇦🇹Laimer
_________🇭🇺Szoboszlai____🇦🇹Baumgartner
__________🇧🇪Openda_______🇵🇹Jota
Subs
🇩🇰 Mads Hermansen
🏴 Taylor Harwood-Bellis
🇲🇦 Amir Richardson
🇵🇹 Fábio Carvalho
🇸🇪 Sebastian Nanasi
🏴 Brennan Johnson
🇲🇽 Santiago Gimenez
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai
Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.
What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.
The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.
The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.
The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.
What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.
The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.
The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.
The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.
Subs on 70 mins
Carvalho on for Baumgartner
Johnson on for Jota
Gimenez on for Openda
posted on 29/8/24
--------------------------- Raya --------------------------
Vanderson - John Stones - Marc Guehi - Robertson
--------------- J.Kimmich --- F. de Jong ---------------
L.Bailey ----------------------------------------- Gordon
------------------------ M.Rogers ------------------------
------------------------- Watkins -------------------------
Bazanu, Kim Min-jae, M.Wieffer, Mittlestadt, Gilmour, J.David, Moukoko
A solid back 4 with Guehi looking to pick up the main striker, he is quick and powerful CB to come against, so will look to bully the striker, be on his toes at all times looking to intercept and ball through to No.9 nip in ahead when he can but nothing rash so he doesnt lose out in possession. Stones alongside, again a very tough, robust defender, he will be spare and will lead the back line, will help out Guehi if needed or pick up a SS/AM, Both can play it out and very good on the ball so no need for rash punts up field unless tequired and no other option, will look to play it to the fullbacks or the midfielders ahead
Fullbacks will attack at the same time look for the one/two with the winger ahead but will time these and not bomb forward willy nilly, Robertson over lapping allowing Gordon to come inside, or just play him, can also use the CMs for quick passing to get the winger passed the opposition fullbacks, Vanderson will come inside alot to make up a midfield 3 to push on centrally. defensively, stay strong, keep the wingers to the outside away from danger, try and keep them on there 'bad' foot so they find it difficult to get a cross in, I do not want to see my defenders dive in, so stay tall and use upper body strength to keep there chances to a minimum. This is a solid back 4 who will be difficult to attack, must stay focussed.
The 2 in midfield are very strong and tenacious, will always get stuck in, press there attacking midfielders, wont give there midfield any time on the ball, we will look to dictate play with neat slick passing, winning the ball and setting the attacking players free into space, Kimmich is the main DM will stick to the AM like glue, Kimmich will be there snapping at his heals, de Jong is more B2B/Playmaker, but doesnt neglect his defensive duties, when we defend he sits alongside Kimmich making life as difficult as possible for the opposition midfield, get right in their faces, when in possession he will carry the ball forward, very difficult to knock off the ball, has 3/4 quality players ahead of him so look for the space to pass, his passing his usually spot on and tends to find his player, he will move into to space and always make himself available for a return ball.
Morgan Rogers in an AM/free role/SS basically anywhere across the line where he will become dangerous and help others making himself available for the ball, he has freedom of the pitch he is our creative spark in the middle of the pitch, drag markers around creating space for others to move into, he will be a nuisance for them, can go wide or join Watkins up top. Will look for the 3 around him plus one fullback as we drive forward, pass and drive into space and become a danger to their goal he will look for anything coming out from defence and sometimes just go for goal. in defence just hassle the midfield/defenders and make them misplace their passes or lose possession.
Wingers/wide midfielders when we attack get down the line drive at fullbacks, Bailey comes inside alot, Gordon to the outside, at times they will have a fullback with them so quick passing round their fullback should give us space for one of them to fire in to the box, whilst this is happening the opposite winger will be moving into space in the danger area to make up numbers, again defending, track their fullbacks and stop them gaining ground. I want them when we have the ball to play up high, Both will always be nipping in and around Watkins and both capable of getting the goals, track their fullbacks if they come forward and stop them attacking
Watkins, always on the last man across the back four, always dragging players away to make space for himself and others, getting into dangerous positions waiting for the ball to come his way, he makes runs other forwards dont he has the intelligence find the space for others to find, he should get plenty supply, he doesnt defend, no need too, if he stays up top this will stop their defenders moving forward especially with the 3 behind buzzing around.
Captain - Kimmich
Pens - Watkins
Free Kicks - de Jong
Corners - de Jong
Losing -
60 mins - Moukoko & Kim Min-jae for Robertson and Vanderson, 3 at the back Moukoko to CF, Rogers to LCF, Watkins to RCF 343 attacking
70 Mins - J.David for Rogers
Winning
75 Mins - Wieffer for Rogers, Gilmour for Vanderson, Wieffer goes into DM role behind Gilmour and de Jong, Kimmich to RB
83 Mins -J.David for Watkins
Drawing -
70 Mins - J.David for Rogers
78 Mins - Moukoko for Watkins, Mittlestadt fot Robertson
posted on 29/8/24
---------------------- E.Martinez -----------------------
Ben White - Ruben Dias - Cr. Romero - N. Mendes
------------ E.Fernandez -- Declan. Rice ------------
--------------------- Koopmeiners ----------------------
--- A.Guler -------------------------------- Mbappe ---
---------------------- E. Haaland -----------------------
Setford, R.Lewis, Colwill, Tchouameni, M.Soule, R.Leao, Omorodion
we need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. Yes they are a good side but they are vulnerable at left fullback where we look to expose them with A.Guler. We have plenty pace, power and most importantly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly.
Our fullback will come inside to help with the extra man advantage in midfield, I want Rice taking care of the AM, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the likes of Rice and Enzo with that extra midfielder so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, Mendes and Mbappe obvs have an understanding so Mendes look to push wide allowing Mbappe to cut inside, one twos which will either get Mendes out wide to cross in or Mbappe to get into the box with a nice slide rule pass, White will likely look for more of a long ball over to utilise Guler pace to beat the defenders.
Enzo and Rice must be patient, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Rice doing the marking job on the most advanced midfielder opposition may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, he sometimes becomes a 3rd CB, when under attack with Jude dropping back also beside Tchouameni, when attacking Rice sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our two CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. Enzo will push a further forward joining Koopmeiners, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area be creative with his passing, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Koopmeiners is the link between midfield and attack, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play as we are definitely up against it, let the pass go as players come onto him, as this will take them out them game and less for our attackers to worry about, plenty options for him to aim for if he decides not to go for goal himself and he is always good for a goal or two. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediate so will always help out Enzo and Rice so will drop back to help and as we win the ball he will then look to start attacks very quickly.
Our wingers are extremely quick and tricky, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack, make sure their fullbacks attacks are nulified just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, Guler and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I want Guler especially cutting inside and onto his stronger left foot, Chilwell at LB is certainly a weak link for Guler to drive against, I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Enzo and Koopmeiners more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power/pace/movement, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Koopmeiners, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.
Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Mbappe
Subs:-
Losing -
65 Mins - Tchouameni for Enzo, Leao for Koopmeiners, Tchouameni and Rice is a solid midfield duo, Mbappe up top, Leao to LW 442/424
75 Mins - Omorodion for Mendes 343 big lad to play a high ball if needed
Winning -
75 Mins - Tchouameni for Koopmeiners, Rice takes a step back into a full on DM role, Tchouamnei sitting beside Enzo, Sould for Guler
85 Mins - Omorodion for Haaland, big lad hold it up, see it out
Drawing -
70 Mins - Soule for Guler, Tchouameni for Enzo
80 Mins - R.Lewis for Koopmeiners and into a 3 man midfield to see it out
posted on 29/8/24
Watford v Aston Villa (Semi Final Second Leg)
Captain – Moscardo
Vice Captain – Collins
-----------------Verbruggen
Wesley--Collins--Murillo--Vanderlan
--------------Moscardo--Gómez
Prestianni-------White-------Guilherme
-------------------Evanilson
SUBS – Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Redondo, Fernandes, Enciso, Leonardo
Today we will concentrate on doing what we do best and playing to our strengths – keeping hold of the ball and working it simply around the park. Nothing flash or risky – just possession football. Patience could be the key and if we keep it tight we have the personnel to get us a goal. We have pace to move the ball forward very quickly and enough pace to regain our shape if the opposition turn it around and try and counter us. This is a formation that can slot into a number of systems. We can easily slip into a 4-3-3, 4-5-1 or a 4-4-2 depending on how the match pans out. When defending it will be more of a defensive 4-4-2 with Gómez and Moscardo holding in the middle with White just in front pressing the opposition and making a nuisance of himself. The whole team will sit that wee bit deeper but always ready for any possible counter.
With the ability of our team to change formation depending on the circumstances I think we have enough in midfield and out wide to starve them from the ball. We will be looking to get bodies in the box. With fast and fluid attacking play Evanilson will always have support in this area and our wide men will always have a target to get the ball in to. With the trickery of White, Prestianni and Guilherme, the opposition can always expect the unexpected when we are on the attack. We will not be afraid to hit them on the counter as with our full backs and wingers we have enough speed and skill to beat most teams. We will also be very respectful of what the opposition can do and will look to press them with urgency when we are looking the ball. We will take the risks we need to open them up ONLY when the correct chance arises. In saying that we will have a measured approach and if they try to play with a high tempo we will match that. We are not here to let them dictate the game. We will play it how we want to play and we will have a right go at them.
We will use Moscardo and Gómez to dictate the tempo of the play to suit our moment. I think with our mobility and physicality we can really stamp our authority on this area right from the off. The wingers will be asked to vary the attack between taking the full backs on the outside, or cutting inside. Whatever seems right at the moment – in order to carve up their defence. The pace of the wingers will cause a lot of headaches and the ability of both wingers and the AM to interchange positions will be something we will use to add to the confusion in the opposition ranks. We will look for our midfield to make it very difficult for them to link up play between their midfield and the front men – hopefully meaning their attack will not see a whole lot of the ball.
Without the ball we will look to White and the wingers/CF to press and give the opposition no space at all to work in. When in possession we will take our time and keep our passing neat and simple. We will be looking for White (supported by Gómez) to orchestrate our attacks. He will be the main man in creating the openings. We will look to our speed outside and on the overlap as well as the cleverness of White in playing the ball through and behind the defenders giving our attacking widemen and CF plenty of ammunition to get on the end of.
Free Kicks/Corners - White, Guilherme and Prestianni with Murillo, Collins and Evanilson expected to go up for attacking set plays.
Penalties - Evanilson or Guilherme
SUBS
If Winning (on 75 mins) – Quansah for Murillo and Enciso for Prestianni – (Straight Swap)
If losing (on 70 mins) – Leonardo for Moscardo, and Enciso for Prestianni (Switch to attacking 4-1-3-2):
-------------Gómez
Enciso----White------Guilherme
--Evanilson --Leonardo
posted on 1/9/24
Europa League Semi Final Second Leg
Tottenham Hotspur v BRENTFORD
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Konrad Laimer
Hiroki Ito
Taylor Harwood-Bellis (sold)
Christoph Baumgartner
_________________🇩🇰Hermansen
🇯🇵Sugawara__🇦🇹Danso__🏴Greaves__🇭🇺Kerkez
_____________🇦🇹Seiwald____🇲🇦Richardson
___________🇭🇺Szoboszlai____🏴Gomes
____________🇧🇪Openda_______🇵🇹Jota
Subs
🇩🇰 Jørgensen
🇧🇦 Dedic
🏴 Henry
🏴 Morton
🇵🇹 Carvalho
🏴 Johnson
🇲🇽 Gimenez
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai
Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.
What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.
The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.
The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.
The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.
What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.
The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.
The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.
The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.
Subs on 70 mins
Dedic on for Sugawara
Johnson on for Jota
Gimenez on for Openda
posted on 1/9/24
4-3-3 High tempo
We play a fluid attacking team full of pace and power and a high tempo, dominate possession in cm with pace up top and width from fbs to stretch the game.
Olise and Williams starting high and wide on the wings, but with complete freedom in the final third.
Two Uruguayan warriors at centre mid, we have the quality at cm to dominate possession, and the energy to play at a high tempo. Ugarte and Valverde have the power and energy on the ball and off it to help our fbs driving down the wings, and support them defensively. When attacking, Ugarte and Valverde give freedom to Eze to attack. Maatsen and Trent bomb down the wings to a high wide position, allowing wingers freedom to come inside.
The fbs bombing forward to combine with the forwards, creating width stretching the game for the attacking players to find space.
Importantly we have a front three full of pace to stretch their defence, pushing them back and creating space for our midfield to dominate.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat.
Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through them starting from the back, playing fast flowing football but varying the tempo when we need to slow down and regain control.
We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.
———————————— Alisson
Trent.A —— E.Militao —— C.Lukeba —— Maatsen
———————— Valverde——— Ugarte
——————————-—— E.Eze
— M.Olise ——————————————— Nico W. —
———————————— Osimhen
Subs. Sanchez, T.Hernandez, J.Cardoso, Mac Allister, Cherki, Kvatskhelia, V.Roque
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else gets into a narrow rigid formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape. Olise drops on the deepest cm, simply sticking to him, the 3 cms narrow to the side the opposition is attacking and Nico is central zonally, in a position to intercept, or quickly get out to the opposite fb if they go for a long shift.
Militai the man-marker next to Lukeba who is free to use his pace and intelligence to sweep up. Ugarte as dm, Eze and Valverde either side of him, and just slightly ahead of him pressing the play in line of 3 cms. Olise zonal in a position to get to the opposite side, and Isak marks their deepest cm. Nico and Olise giving our cms ability to press and narrow to the side opposition are attacking. In zones to stop their attacking midfielders and allowing Ugarte to cover or step in if one cm needs to step out to press or to help the fb.
In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Stop them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
Attack
Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.
We have a fluid front three, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.
Subs.(Based on this tie only)
If winning or drawing after 68 mins bring on Cardoso for Ugarte. Power against tired legs.
If winning or drawing after 72 mins bring on Roque for Osimhen. Legs and trickery as space opens up in midfield.
If winning after after 75 mins bring on Cherki for Olise.
If losing after 70 mins bring on Kvaratskhelia and Theo for Trent and Maatsen. 3-5-2. Kvaratskhelia up top.
If losing
posted on 7/9/24
Europa League Final
BRENTFORD v Watford
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Fábio Carvalho
Filip Jørgensen
Amar Dedic
Nicolas Seiwald
_______________🇩🇰Hermansen
🇯🇵Sugawara__🇰🇷Kim___🇯🇵Ito___🇭🇺Kerkez
__________🇳🇱Reijnders____🇦🇹Laimer
________🇭🇺Szoboszlai____🇦🇹Baumgartner
__________🇧🇪Openda_______🇵🇹Jota
Subs
🇩🇰 Schmeichel
🇵🇱 Zalewski
🇮🇹 Ricci
🇲🇦 Richardson
🏴 Gomes
🏴 Johnson
🇲🇽 Gimenez
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai
Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.
What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.
The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.
The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.
The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.
What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.
The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.
The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.
The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.
Subs if winning on 70 mins
Richardson on for Sugawara (Laimer to RB)
Gimenez on for Openda
If the opposition subsequently score any time beyond 70 mins when we were originally ahead then:
Johnson on for Baumgartner
Subs if drawing/loosing on 70 mins
Zalewski on for Kerkez
Johnson on for Jota
Gimenez on for Openda
posted on 7/9/24
--------------------- E.Martinez ---------------------
B.White -- Cr. Romero -- Ruben Dias -- Mendes
----------- Tchouameni --- Declan Rice -----------
-- A.Guler ---------- K.Yildiz ---------- Mbappe --
----------------------- Haaland ----------------------
Setford, T.Mitchell, E.Fernandez, Koopmeiners, R.Leao, M.Soule, Konate
Champions League Final, a good chance with Leicester hit by some significant injuries. we need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. Yes they are a good side but they are vulnerable at right fullback where we look to expose them with Mbappe. We have plenty pace, power and most importantly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly.
Our fullbacks will come inside to help with the extra man advantage in midfield, I want Rice taking care of the AM, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the likes of Rice and Tchouameni with that extra midfielder so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, Mendes and Mbappe obvs have an understanding so Mendes look to push wide allowing Mbappe to cut inside, one twos which will either get Mendes out wide to cross in or Mbappe to get into the box with a nice slide rule pass, White will likely look for more of a long ball over to utilise Guler pace to beat the defenders.
Tchouameni and Rice must be patient, as solid a midfield two as you will see in the league, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Rice doing the marking job on the most advanced midfielder opposition may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, when attacking Rice sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our 2/3 CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. Tchouameni will push a further forward sitting just behind Yildiz, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area be creative with his passing, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Maybe a surprise selection in Yildiz but he is a game changer with his skill and powerful running, he is the link between midfield and attack, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play as we are definitely up against it, let the pass go as players come onto him, as this will take them out them game and less for our attackers to worry about, plenty options for him to aim for if he decides not to go for goal himself and he is always good for a goal or two. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediate so will always help out the midfield by closing down any runners from deep and look to block the ball/player from advancing, look to start attacks very quickly.
Our wingers are extremely quick and tricky, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack, make sure their fullbacks attacks are nulified just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, Guler and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I want Guler especially cutting inside and onto his stronger left foot. I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Yildiz and trhe midfield more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power/pace/movement, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Yildiz, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.
Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Mbappe
Subs -
Losing -
65 Mins - R.Leao for Yildiz, we go 442/424 with Leao going to LW and Mbappe into a central position
75 Mins - Koopmeiners for Mendes now pushing we go 3412, Koops into a No.10, M.Soule for Guler
Winning -
75 Mins - T.Mitchell for Mendes, a solid LB will be told to sit and only atack when under no threat
80 Mins - Enzo for Yildiz, he drops beside Tchouameni with Rice into a DM role
84 Mins - Konate for Haaland, youngster will chase everythig down, still a threat if needed
Drawing -
65 Mins - Koopmeiners for Yildiz, Soule for Guler, Koops has a magnificent passing range and obvs a huge goal threat.
75 Mins - Leao for Haaland, he goes LW, Mbappe up top, using more pace v tiring defenders
posted on 8/9/24
Watford: Europa League Final vs Brentford
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: André
Team:
-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley----Collins--Murillo----Vanderlan
-------------------André
--------------Jones---Gómez
Enciso------------------------------Edwards
------------------Evanilson
SUBS: Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Redondo, Price, Guilherme, Leonardo
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: Verbruggen is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. 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: André 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. Jones and Gómez will play just in front of André. Jones will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Gómez 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 Enciso and Edwards 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 Gómez, Jones and Evanilson 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 Jones may sit a bit deeper allowing Gómez 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.
Evanilson 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: Jones, Edwards or Enciso with Collins, Murillo and Evanilson to offer an aerial threat. Gómez and Edwards (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Evanilson
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Leonardo for Evanilson and Guilherme for Enciso, 2 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 70 minutes) Guilherme for Jones and Leonardo for Enciso. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Leonardo and Giovani offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
----------------André
Guilherme--Gómez--- Edwards
------Evanilson---Leonardo
posted on 10/9/24
3-6-1 High tempo
We play a fluid attacking team full of pace, power and a high tempo, dominate possession with pace up top and width from wingers to stretch the game. Fan has been running scared looking for a walkover and too handicap us, so we go and play attacking 100mph football. Their attackers are poor defensively, so we take advantage.
A change in shape to make us more attacking, dominate the midfield and target their fbs with our wingers. What is a 3-6-1 in name will turn into a 3-5-2, Kvarat and Foden playing fluid role, one will go deep and one will go up to play as a second forward. Effectively looking to force Chelsea to go man for man at the back, and with the trickery and pace of our attackers to get the better.
With all the cbs strong on the ball and comfortable stepping into midfield, they help the cms dominate possession. The 3 cbs and two strong defensive cms give the rest of the team freedom to attack without leaving us exposed against Chelsea’s pace in attack.
The Chelsea wingers naturally come inside, so the 3rd cbs help guard against this threat. We target Chelsea’s lb, likely with Mbappe ahead of him, they are weaker defensively here. Olise and Foden help target this area.
The cbs, Rodri and Valverde have the quality to dominate possession, set the tempo of the game, and create. Both cms have the energy and creativity on the ball to help our attacks going forward, while staying strong defensively.
With a pacey and powerful team, set pieces will also be a massive threat. Our whole team bar Foden and Nico (5’11) are 6ft or over, so we look to use the power and pace in open play and set pieces to bully Chelsea.
Possession is always dominated by defenders and cms. We have ensured we have defenders that can play incisive passes and they will be key as we look to play through them starting from the back, playing fast flowing football but varying the tempo when we need to slow down and regain control.
We look to play attacking total football, so we obviously play a high line. This high line allows us to press high up the park and retain possession more easily, by having closer options to pass to.
——————————————- Alisson
————— E.Militao —— Marquinhos —— Lukeba
—————————— Valverde —— Rodri
Olise —————— Foden ——— Kvaratskhelia——— Nico.W
—————————————— Osimhen
Subs. Sanchez, Theo.H, Livramento, Ugarte, Eze, Gyokeres, Isak
Defending high
When we lose the ball the closest player presses the ball, the second closest presses the obvious passing channel. Everyone else gets into a narrow rigid 3-2-4-1 formation behind the ball in position to press high up the park. Stop them breaking and allow players to get into shape. The 4 narrow to the side of play Chelsea have the ball, when their defence have the ball we look to stay ball side of their cms, wingers narrowing to go man for man bar Foden who occupies the space between their deepest cm and their defence. Continuing to drop back deeper in this shape, pressing hard, with Valverde behind pressing any breakthroughs and Rodri zonal in the middle allowing one of the cbs to break wide if the they go long.
Marquinhos the man-marker next to Militao and Lukeba who are free to use their intelligence and pace to sweep up. If we are deeper, the winger on the opposite side of play drops to fb to guard the back post.
In a narrow, rigid defensive formation, we press the space, not allowing them options. Stop them from advancing to positions where they can’t hurt us, by trying to win the ball back quickly. Then break quickly in these high positions when we do win the ball.
Attack
Key to our attack is quick direct passing play, not looking to force the play but moving the ball quickly.
We have a fluid attack, who can switch positions or drop deep to collect the ball from midfield. This fluidity will help the players to get away from their markers, catch the opposition out and create space.
Subs.
If winning after 68 mins bring on Theo and Livramento for Nico and Olise. Fresh legs and strength in demanding roles.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Eze for Foden, fresh legs and gives more control as more of a cm.
If winning after 75 mins bring on Isak for Osimhen.
If drawing or losing after 70 mins bring on Isak and Livramento for Kvaratskhelia and Olise. 3-5-2. Two big men up top and a rwb who will swing in crosses. Go direct.
If drawing or losing after 80 mins bring on Gyokeres for Foden. 3-4-3. Route one. Narrow front 3, Isak left, Gyokeres right.
posted on 14/9/24
------------------- E.Martinez --------------------
B.White - Cr. Romero - Ruben Dias - Mendes
---------- Tchouameni -- Declan Rice ----------
A.Guler ----------- K.Yildiz ------------ Mbappe
--------------------- Haaland ----------------------
Setford, R.Lewis, Koopmeiners, A.Varela, M.Soule, R.Leao, Omorodion
We need to use our pace, power and experience we have to really have a go at them, we must remain focussed. We have plenty pace, power and most importantly goals throughout this team and will be looking to cause some damage to their back line, with a very quick and dangerous front 3/4 Defend as a team, press them all over the pitch, chasing back as they attack, close them down early, pressurize them quickly.
Our fullbacks will come inside to help with the extra man advantage in midfield, I want Rice taking care of the AM, simple instruction to stop him dictating play when he has the ball at feet, pressure him into mistakes. Our fullbacks move into a position where they can help the likes of Rice and Tchouameni with that extra midfielder so we are not overwhelmed, the other fullback who hasnt initially gone to meet a midfielder(obvs depending on what they are attacking( I want him to just slot into a LCB or RCB position to help deal with the 2 central attackers, attacking then the fbs attack one at time, Mendes and Mbappe obvs have an understanding so Mendes look to push wide allowing Mbappe to cut inside, one twos which will either get Mendes out wide to cross in or Mbappe to get into the box with a nice slide rule pass, White will likely look for more of a long ball over to utilise Guler pace to beat the defenders.
Tchouameni and Rice must be patient, as solid a midfield two as you will see in the league, provide some support to our defense when we are in retreat they harrass the man with the ball with Rice doing the marking job on the most advanced midfielder opposition may become a bit wary of hanging onto the ball too long, when attacking Rice sits in as the fullbacks attack he will be there to give our 2/3 CBs support just in case we lose it so we always have at least 3 back. When he has the ball he will look to dictate play and play in those in front and get attacks started. Tchouameni will push a further forward sitting just behind Yildiz, and Haaland in a central attacking position to give us numbers up top, like said, if we push forward they have to crawl back, so even if we lose the ball they do not have the numbers up top to unleash a counter giving us time to get back, pass and move quickly and precisely and move into a dangerous area be creative with his passing, demand the ball be confident in his abilities, shoot if he can and has an opportunity to do so.
Yildiz is a game changer with his skill and powerful running, he is the link between midfield and attack, he will pick it up from those behind and move it forward, especially to Haaland, will look to find him in pockets the CF will get into, Haaland will be making runs to get himself into space, he has to find him, he will find him, he will be direct with his passing, wether out wide or to our striker, if he wants to play a risky ball to get us in then he will, I want him to be aggressive in his play as we are definitely up against it, let the pass go as players come onto him, as this will take them out them game and less for our attackers to worry about, plenty options for him to aim for if he decides not to go for goal himself and he is always good for a goal or two. Defending, his workrate in good, his pressing is aggressive and immediate so will always help out the midfield by closing down any runners from deep and look to block the ball/player from advancing, look to start attacks very quickly.
Our wingers are extremely quick and tricky, when we don't have the ball they drop back a bit to make up the numbers as opposition attack, make sure their fullbacks attacks are nulified just stop them pushing forward and that stops a massive threat, push into the faces of the opposition to force them into mistakes and hopefully in the end they lose the ball, just get in the way of them moving forward, Guler and Mbappe will cause them problems drifting in an out, I want Guler especially cutting inside and onto his stronger left foot. I also want to play a high line when attacking to push there attacking fullbacks back and nervous about pushing forward, take men on and getting in behind their fullbacks, thus allowing Yildiz and trhe midfield more time and space to pick there moment to move into space as an attacking threat and eventually to Haaland who can beat any defender with power/pace/movement, wingers who will look to get into space to get a shot off, if their defense is on top then we can always go direct at times and fire early crosses especially from deep from the fullbacks to midfield and Haaland, we must always make sure Haaland is well supported, especially wingers and Yildiz, who at times will be right on his shoulder or alongside. His movement is exceptional so always makes space for himself of others to move into, if he gets a chance it will more than likely turn into a goal.
Captain - R.Dias
Pens - Haaland
Set Pieces - Mbappe
Losing -
65 Mins - Omorodion for Yildiz 442/424 adding a lot of power up top, M.Soule for Guler like for like
75 Mins - Leao for Mendes, White to RCB,Leao to LW, Mabppe up top 343 attacking
Winning -
75 Mins - A.Varela for Yildiz, drops in to become the DM, all action, no messing
84 Mins - Omorodion for Haaland, R.Lewis for Guler
Drawing -
70 Mins - R.Lewis for B.White fresh legs, Leao for Haaland switch with Mbappe, Koopmeiners for Yildiz
posted on 14/9/24
BRENTFORD v Spurs
🤧🤒🤕🤢
Samuele Ricci
Brennan Johnson
Amar Dedic
Christoph Baumgartner
Leroy Sané
________________🇩🇰Hermansen
🇯🇵Sugawara__🇩🇪Tah__🇩🇪Schlotterbeck_🇭🇺Kerkez
____________🇦🇹Seiwald____🇦🇹Laimer
_________🇭🇺Szoboszlai_____🇳🇱Reijnders
__________🇧🇪Openda_______🇮🇹Retegui
Subs
🇩🇰 Filip Jørgensen
🇧🇪 Koni De Winter
🇯🇵 Hiroki Ito
🇲🇦 Amir Richardson
🇵🇹 Fábio Carvalho
🇲🇦 Abde Ezzalzouli
🏴 Eddie Nketiah
Captain - Szoboszlai
Free Kicks - Szoboszlai
Pens - Szoboszlai
Our 4-2-2-2 formation uses a traditional four-player defensive line and a midfield split into two pairs. The first – a double pivot – protects the central spaces ahead of the defence, and the second – a more advanced pair – primarily operates between the lines, in support of our two centre-forwards.
What are our players’ in-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The full-backs provide our team's attacking width in the 4-2-2-2, often moving ahead of the double pivot. The centre-backs use the double pivot to build from the back, while also breaking lines with passes into the attacking midfielders when possible.
The double pivot supports attacks underneath the ball, and provides cover inside and behind our advanced full-backs. One of our players in the double pivot may drop into the back line after the full-backs have pushed forward to create a back three. Alternatively, one of them may provide a delayed forward run to join the attack.
The number 10s are our primary creators, and both the most interesting and unique aspect of our 4-2-2-2 formation. They aim to get into positions between the lines (see above) to pick up the ball. They will link the defence and double pivot to our centre-forwards, while also offering an additional goal threat, bursting forward during counter-attacks and subsequent moves to pick up second balls and shoot from distance. It will also be:common to see our 10s moving wide to support the advanced full-backs. They may deliver crosses or make decoy runs to create space for the full-back to cross.
The centre-forwards stay highest, and are responsible for creating and finishing chances. They occupy the opposing centre-backs, link play with midfield runners, attack crosses, through balls and cut-backs, and stretch the opposition by threatening the space in behind. One of our two strikers may drop short to create space for a midfielder to run in behind, but they'll mostly remain central and high up the pitch.
What are our players’ out-of-possession responsibilities in a 4-2-2-2?
The back line of four sets up like any other back four, staying compact and protecting the spaces closest to goal. However, the full-backs may push forward to press the opponent. When one does so, the centre-backs and far-side full-back slide across the pitch to cover.
The double pivot protects the central spaces in front of the centre-backs, but may push forward to support a high press. They will also be responsible for tracking runs from opposition midfielders beyond the midfield line.
The number 10s are likely to take up a narrow defensive position, staying close to the double pivot. When the team drops back into a block, they may move alongside the double pivot to form a second line of four and create a 4-4-2 block. When pressing high, the attacking midfielders could still start narrow, before moving to press the opposition full-backs or wing-backs in an attempt to lock play near the touchline with a curved press. Alternatively, the two 10s could press inwards, along with the centre-forwards, in an attempt to show the opposition into the crowded central area of the pitch. Here, the double pivot will then try and win the ball.
The centre-forwards are responsible for instigating the high press, and then applying pressure from behind the ball to stop our opponent from turning out and recycling possession. If the aim is to force play towards the touchline, the centre-forwards will press outwards and try to prevent the opposition from switching play.
Subs on 70 mins
Richardson on for Laimer
Ezzalzouli on for Reijnders
posted on 16/9/24
Ito removed from bench
posted on 16/9/24
MAN UNITED vs Arsenal
---------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
-----------Diomamde--------Pacho--------Scalvini-----------
----------------------------------Camavinga-----------------------------------
Frimpong-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
---------------------------------------Palmer----------------------------------------
-----------------Saka------------Hojlund----------------Tel---------------
Subs - Mamardashvili, Gusto, Onana, Elliott, Bakayoko, Gittens, Sesko
CK'S - SAKA
FK'S - SAKA
PENALTIES - PALMER
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 back 3 is well balanced and full of pace and power. Diomande and Scalvinj will be playing as the outside CB's and will look to stop any attacks that go down their wings using their super human pace and tackling ability. Pacho in the middle will marshall the defence and look to work together with his fellow CB's to stop the oppo attackers. Stay compact and not too far from each other so we can deal with any crosses into the area etc. All 3 of these CB's are very good at playing from the back and I want them to use that ability if they have some space to dribble into from defence.
WINGBACKS
Frimpong and Barco are playing as wingbacks today. They will both have the freedom to bomb up and down their flanks. When defending stick close to the oppo wingers and stop them from getting past you, the DM's will be helping you a lot aswell. Diomande and Hincapie will be ready as the outside CB's to help you clear up any loose balls etc. Be vary of oppo fullbacks making overlapping runs as I want you to stick with them to stop them getting to the byline. I want both wingbacks to stay wide and make runs forward when given the opportunity. Try and whip some dangerous balls into the oppo area and use your pace to get back into defensive positions if the oppo try and hit us on a counter..
Defence Mid
Camavinga
Camavinga will be the main enforcer to protect the defence and to control the central midfield. Just focus on defending as we have enough attacking talent. Cover the central areas in front of the defence and intercept/put in tackles when the oppo AM has the ball in a dangerois position. Play quick passes out to our attackers so we can launch a counter attack.
Wingers
Saka + Tel
These 2 will be the focal point of my attack. I want to give them the freedom to express themselves in attack so they do not have to track back and help out in defence. Saka will be looking to cut in from the right and Tel likewise who will cut in from the left. 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 into the centre of the pitch to the DM or play quick one two's with our wingbacks. The main role of the wingers will be to get some crosses, low balls into the box for Hojlund to attack. 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
Cold Palmer
Palmer will be playing just behind Hojlund 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. Interchange with Saka from time to time to throw off the oppo.
Striker
Hojlund
Hojlund will be leading the line for us today. He has got the pace and strength to play the role and he will have plenty of support in attack. Be vary of crosses into the box and try and get in front of your marker. Use your physical power to hold the ball up and to bring others into the game. Play quick pass and move combinations with your teammates to find spaces in the oppo defence. Be vary of loose balls in the box so you can use your quick reactions to get to the ball before the oppo defenders.
Subs if LOSING BY 75MINS
Put on Gittens and Sesko for Tel and Hojlund to bring some more attacking impetus on. Play a high line and put a lot of pressure on the oppo to win the ball back.
---------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
-----------Diomande---------Pacho------Scalvini----------
------------------------------------Cama--------------------------------------
Frimpong-----------------------------------------------------------Barco
-------------------------------------Palmer-----------------------------------
------------------Saka----------Sesko------------Gittens----------------
Subs if WINNING BY 80MINS
Take off Palmer and put on Onana in CM to offer more defensive protection and energy in the middle. Play defensive with everyone in our own half defending for their lives, waiting to hit the oppo on the counter attack.
----------------------------------------Maignan-----------------------
------------------Diomande-------Pacho--------Scalvini--------
Frimpong----------Camavinga--------Onana-----------Barco
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------Saka-------------Hojlund------------------Tel-------------
Subs if DRAWING BY 65MINS
Switch formation to 3412 to confuse the oppo. Bring on Bakayoko and Gittens for Saka and Tel.
------------------------------------Maignan---------------------------------
---------------Diomande-------Pacho---------Scalvini-----------
------------------------Camavinga-------Onana-------------------------
Frimpong-------------------------------------------------------------Barco
--------------------------------------Palmer--------------------------------------
-----------------------------Sesko------------Hojlund-------------------------
posted on 16/9/24
Watford: League Week 1 HOME vs Newcastle
Captain: Collins
Vice Captain: André
Team:
-----------------Verbruggen
Bradley----Collins--Murillo----Vanderlan
-------------------André
--------------Jones---Gómez
Enciso------------------------------Domínguez
-------------------Castro
SUBS: Martinelli, Esquerdinha, Quansah, Redondo, Fernandes, Guilherme, Ferguson
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: Verbruggen is a big mobile keeper and very athletic. 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: André 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. Jones and Gómez will play just in front of André. Jones will be a more box to box type. He will be involved all over and will offer as much in defence as in attack. Gómez 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 Enciso and Domínguez 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 Gómez, Jones and Castro 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 Jones may sit a bit deeper allowing Gómez 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.
Castro 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: Jones, Domínguez or Enciso with Collins, Murillo and Castro to offer an aerial threat. Gómez and Domínguez (with his thunderbolt left foot) may try their luck with several free kicks from distance.
Penalties: Castro
Substitutions: (if winning on 80 minutes) Ferguson for Castro and Guilherme for Enciso, 2 like for like substitutions.
If losing (on 70 minutes) Guilherme for Jones and Ferguson for Enciso. Shift to a 4-1-3-2 attack. Ferguson and Giovani offering fresh legs, pace and a bit of the unknown in attack.
----------------André
Guilherme--Gómez--- Domínguez
------Castro---Ferguson
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