Juventus 2-2 Real Madrid: Tactical Analysis

Fernando Llorente celebrates his goal with team-mate Paul Pogba

As the fourth round of matches got underway this week, the first of the big ones to be played was at the Juventus Stadium. The Bianconeri hosted the Galacticos 2.0 in what was a must win encounter for the Old Lady. A win for real would see them secure their place in the next round very early, and spell doom for Juventus.

Conte started his side in a 4-1-4-1 formation. The back four consisted of Caceres, Barzagli, Bonucci and Asamoah from right to left. Pirlo was the regista in front of them. The 4 ahead of him were expected to run up and down the pitch to provide defensive cover and attacking thrust. Llorente was the lone striker.

Real Madrid lined up in a 4-3-3 formation. Ramos began at right back, with Pepe and Varane in the middle, and Marcelo on the left. The trio in midfield were Alonso, Khedira and Modric. The front three were Ronaldo, Bale and Benzema.

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Real Attack

Real Madrid came into this game hoping for a win, but they wouldn’t mind a draw, as their position at the top of the group was probably secure. So, initially, Ancelotti opted to keep his cards in his pocket, and the full backs generally stayed back. The only person who was going forward to join the attacking trio was the energetic Sami Khedira. Alonso and Modric were also told to stay deeper.

The rationale was to keep the ball, and force Juventus out. Having more men back meant that it was much easier for them to keep the ball, and have “sterile possession”. When they did attack, it was down to the trio trying to counter in wide areas. The top 3 Real Madrid touches came from Varane, Modric and Ramos, all whom were playing much deeper. Of course, Juventus opting not to press the Los Blancos also helped Real keep the ball and make long strings of passes.

Marcelo in the first half