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Jun 14, 2021 10 tweets 5 min read Read on X
#SCOCZE Euro 2020 - Tactical Thread

Key Points:

- Czech take advantage of set piece & transitional weaknesses
- Dykes off the ball movement was crucial in Scotland's attacking phases
- Scotland's build up play is promising, but needs work

CC: @TacticalPad

#Euro2020 #SCO #CZE
Scotland's build up play was surprisingly progressive for a team that historically doesn't aim to play pretty football.

McTominay struggles as a lone pivot, so depending on the side of play, one of McGinn or Armstrong would drop from deeper from their half-space to help.
Czech Republic did great to keep McTominay out of the game. He was isolated & needed assistance. Having said that, when he got help in the build up phase, Scotland were able to play progressively.

Dykes/Christie drops deep to drag their marker out of position, creating space.
Scotland's forwards were asked to drop between the forward and midfield lines to drag their markers out of position. By doing this, it helped isolate Coufal who would then need to defend Robertson and the space created by the deep Scottish forwards.
These types of movements were impressive from Scotland. They repeatedly pulled defenders out of position but ultimately failed to convert the chances created.
Czech's attack came from transitional phases. They would press high, forcing Scotland to play long balls over the top because Czech Republic were comfortable winning their aerial duels.
By forcing long balls, Czech Republic could increase the likelihood of winning the ball and counter-attacking.
The Czech scored their goals from a set piece and a wonder striker from Schick. There was an over reliance on the set pieces, but there is some thought behind their play.

Czech Republic would press the right side aggressively as they knew O'Donnell to be weak in possession.
Unfortunate for Scotland as they were the better team. Should they go out in this years Euros, they can be proud that they framework for their style of play going forward is working and embraced by the players.
If you've enjoyed this thread, consider following and retweeting it as we will be doing post match threads for all the games during #EURO2020 , as well as match previews for all the upcoming match days on our website: pythagorasinboots.com/euro-2020/

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