Poland's expected threat (xT) via pass, with the player in each zone being the top xT player in that zone, and all the players' total xT via pass in the table to the right
Saudi Arabia's expected threat (xT) via pass, with the player in each zone being the top xT player in that zone, and all the players' total xT via pass in the table to the right
All Poland passes by zone
All Saudi Arabia passes by zone
Poland's main passing flows. Each arrow represents at least 3 completed passes from the arrow's origin zone to the arrowhead's zone.
A darker color indicates more passes
Saudi Arabia's main passing flows. Each arrow represents at least 3 completed passes from the arrow's origin zone to the arrowhead's zone.
A darker color indicates more passes
Expected Threat (xT) from passes, zone control.
Areas shaded in a team's color means they had more xT from passes in that zone
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Poland π΅π± are the best defensive side in Group C.
Argentina π¦π· need to win to guarantee a place in the knockouts.
Here's how to beat the Polish defense π
πΈπ§΅
3 key ways top beat π΅π± that I'll illustrate:
1) Lure players out of position with vertical passes, especially the FB/WBs
2) Play quick lateral passes to spread their players & then attack those gaps
3) Play quick in transition to stop them from forming their shape
Many of these, especially points 1 & 2, can and should be used together. Examples will be from both Mexico and Saudi Arabia matches, but πΈπ¦ did a much better job at breaking them down, so more come from their match.
Just finished #POLKSA and man, even with a 2-0 loss πΈπ¦ are the team that have impressed me the most this World Cup. They beat π¦π· with a strong defensive tactic, and for long stretches of this match, especially first half, they outclassed π΅π± with a direct attacking tactic
They have a decent chance of qualifying still. And some of the most dangerous teams in a World Cup are ones that can play multiple styles.
KSA can defend well and stifle opponentβs possession, or they can take the reigns and attack swiftly. Final ball/shot let them down today
That first half was crazy, took control and really outclassed Poland and were a bit disappointed but to grab a goal excluding that penalty
Poland showed how to beat their defense though. As I said a few days ago gotta play swift direct over their back line. Did that for 1st goal