Article
Bayern Munich Crush Barcelona To Move A Step Closer To Wembley: A Detailed Analysis Of The Game
Match in a sentence
Bayern Munich are one step closer to a second consecutive Champions League final, after producing a fantastic performance, which saw them defeat Barcelona at the Allianz Arena.
Analysis
- Jupp Heynckes stuck with his traditional 4-2-3-1 as Mario Gomez led the line for the suspended Mario Mandzukic. Thomas Muller, Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery played behind the German striker, while Javi Martinez and Bastian Schweinsteiger protected the back four. Bayern Munich was still without the injured Toni Kroos, while Jerome Boateng started over Daniel van Buyten.
- Lionel Messi was declared fit to play in Tito Vilanova’s 4-3-3, as Alexis Sanchez and Pedro Rodriguez played alongside the Argentinian forward. Vilanova’s midfield three consisted of Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets. Cesc Fabregas and David Villa were on the bench, while Adriano was suspended.
- Bayern Munich was tactically superb for the entirety of the match and despite Barcelona dominating possession, Heynckes’ men exploited Barcelona’s weaknesses.
- The main feature in this match was pressing; many were skeptical about Bayern’s abililty to press Barcelona, but yet again Heynckes got it right. Bayern sat in the midfield and allowed Gerard Pique and Marc Bartra to play balls forward. Bayern rarely pressed Vilanova’s men high up the pitch unless they were playing balls from the back on goal kicks or free kicks.
- Barcelona’s pressing was effective in the opening minutes of the match, as they looked to prevent Bayern from playing from the back. Since Vilanova took over, they’ve tended to sit off and allow teams to play forward, which has led to them being exposed defensively. Bayern eventually began to play through the pressing as Boateng and Schweinsteiger found gaps in between the midfield that they played through.
- When Heynckes’ men didn’t have the ball they were tactically disciplined, and they prevented Barcelona from stamping their authority on the match.
Robben and Ribery tracked the runs of Dani Alves and Alba, which prevented the surging fullbacks from creating overloads with Sanchez and Pedro. The manner in which Bayern handled the midfield was rather impressive; prior to the match many questioned whether Gomez would be able to replicate Manzukic’s duties, but he did so willingly. Gomez dropped deeper to press Busquets, when Muller was unable to, and it disrupted the rhythm of the midfield. Muller and Gomez got close to Busquets constantly, and they stayed tight when Bayern didn’t have the ball, creating a 4-4-2.
- Schweinsteiger and Martinez did an exceptional job nullifying Xavi, Messi and Iniesta. Schweinsteiger got close to Xavi on several occasions, and shadowed Messi when he dropped deep into the midfield.
Iniesta was hounded by Martinez, prohibiting the Spaniard from gliding forward. Martinez and Schweinsteiger were fantastic on the night, pushing the Barcelona midfield deeper, and despite dominating possession- it was the areas they held the ball in, and their inability to penetrate that mattered.
- On the offensive end, Schweinsteiger dropped closer to the Bayern centre backs towards the end of the first half, to keep a grasp on the match. Both men won the ball in midfield and would drive forward to spread an advancing pass when the opportunity presented itself. In the second half, Schweinsteiger got forward often on the counter, linking play with the Bayern wingers – something Iniesta failed to do for Barcelona. Schweinsteiger had the most influence going forward when he pushed forward behind Muller, due to the introduction of Luiz Gustavo.
Two hours prior to kickoff, Barcelona released a statement declaring Messi fit to play. Unfortunately, it was evident that Messi was nowhere close to 100%, as he struggled throughout the entire match. The Argentine found himself dropping deep into the midfield to receive the ball, conceding possession at will, and instead of shrugging off defenders with his pace, he opted to make sideways passes. Messi didn’t look confident to take players on at full speed, in fear of causing more damage to his hamstring – which meant he had minimal influence on the match.
- Of the four goals Barcelona conceded, two of their main weaknesses were exploited. The first two goals exploited their inability to deal with set pieces. Now this has been a severe problem for them, especially when Carles Puyol has been sidelined. The departures of Seydou Keita, Yaya Toure and the absence of Eric Abidal, has seen Barcelona lack an aerial presence, but teams have failed to target this weakness. The first two goals stemmed from balls being whipped into the far post, which Alves failed to win. Dante and Muller nodded the balls across goal and Barcelona failed to pick up both Muller and Gomez. Bayern nearly got their third from a Robben header, which came from another set piece, but it was clear that Bayern were looking to trouble Barcelona’s weaknesses aerially.
- In the first half, Alves and Pedro connecting on the right flank was positive going forward. Unfortunately with Barcelona looking to grab an away goal, Alves looked to get forward constantly.
Pedro and Sanchez were isolated on the flanks, so Pedro found himself dropping deep centrally to receive the ball. This led to Sanchez and Pedro swapping flanks, and Messi drifting to the right, which had minimal effect on the match. Alves had no player to link with going forward, and he often found himself out of position when Bayern launched their counter attacks.
- One of Barcelona’s weaknesses this season has been the defensive imbalance they possess with two attacking fullbacks. Alba and Alves provide width, but with both men bombing forward it leaves Vilanova’s men vulnerable at the back, and Bayern exploited the space provided. From as early as the first minute, Robben made a forward run unmarked and nearly gave Bayern the lead. Mainly on Alves’ side in the second half, Ribery and Alaba were able to surge forward and their overlap led to the fourth goal. Bayern’s performance tonight has highlighted why Barcelona need a defensive minded fullback, but also the possible end of Alves’ time with the Catalan side.
- Barcelona finally met their match tonight, as all the weaknesses during their era of dominance were exploited. Messi not being 100% played a factor, but the performances of a few players highlighted that change is needed. Vilanova’s inability to change the game by bringing on Villa earlier or Fabregas will be questioned, but ultimately Heynckes’ men were too good on the night. The absence of Tito and the injury to Messi, Puyol and Mascherano have affected the Catalan side, but their performances throughout this tournament in the knockout round have been below par. Defenders and better attackers should be addressed in the off-season, but unless we witness a miracle, today was the day Bayern Munich knocked Barcelona off their perch.
- Bayern Munich produced a master class performance; they possess the players to nullify Barcelona’s midfield, they attacked the space available due to the advancing fullbacks and attacked them on set pieces. Many questioned how the Bavarian’s would cope without Kroos and Mandzukic, and they provided us with another scintillating performance on a European night.
“The players have proven time and again that we have no B team, only an A team.” – Jupp Heynckes prior to the match
The loss to Chelsea last season was heartbreaking for Munich players and fans, but they’re 90 minutes away from a trip to Wembley where they’ll be favourites to avenge that loss. Tonight was potentially the start of a new era – how fitting that Bayern Munich saved it for a monumental European night, months before former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola takes charge of the Bavarian side.
“I am happy about the result, but I am not getting carried away. I know we still face 90 very difficult minutes in Spain. We will enjoy what happened tonight, but nothing more. It is important to stick to your tactical guidelines against Barcelona and that is what makes my team stand out this year.” – Heynckes post-match
Three Stars
Thomas Muller
Bastian Schweinsteiger
Arjen Robben
Stats
- Barcelona have now won three of their last 16 away matches in the Champions League knockout stages
- Javi Martinez has won his first game against Barcelona in 15 attempts
- Barcelona equal their worst losses in Europe, which were 4-0 results, in November 1997 vs Dynamo Kyiv and in the 1994 final against AC Milan in Athens
- Bayern have progressed on all three previous occasions (all European competitions) when they won 4-0 in the first leg at home
- Only three teams have progressed after a 1st leg loss with at least a 4-goal margin (all European comp.): Real Madrid, Partizan Beograd, Leixões SC.
- Müller has scored seven Champions League goals in 2012/2013. Only one German player has scored more in a single season: Mario Gomez (8 + 12)
Stats via @InfostradaLive
Argentina will be aiming for a record-breaking 16th Copa America title when they take on Colombia
The Copa America 2024 is set for an electrifying conclusion as defending champions Argentina face off against Colombia at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida on Sunday. This highly anticipated final marks the first-ever Copa America final meeting between these two footballing powerhouses. Argentina aim to secure a record-breaking 16th title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s history.
Argentina’s road to the final has been marked by grit and determination. They navigated a nerve-wracking penalty shootout against Ecuador in the quarter-finals before securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over Canada in the semi-finals. Julian Alvarez opened the scoring, followed by a historic goal from Lionel Messi, who now stands as the second-highest male goalscorer in international football with 109 goals.
Argentina’s unbeaten streak now extends to 10 matches, and they remain unbeaten in major tournament knockout games on American soil since the 1994 World Cup. It is no understatement that they go into the clash as favourites.
Colombia are no pushovers, however. They have been in exceptional form. Since their 1-0 loss to Argentina in World Cup qualifying in February 2022, they have embarked on a record-breaking unbeaten run of 28 matches.
Jefferson Lerma’s header gave Colombia the lead before Daniel Munoz’s red card put them at a numerical disadvantage against Uruguay. Despite this setback, Colombia’s resilience shone through as they held on to secure their place in the final. The victory over Uruguay was marred by a brawl involving Uruguayan players and Colombian supporters, but Colombia’s focus remained unwavering. This final represents a chance for Colombia to end a long wait since their first Copa America triumph in 2001.
Team News and Predicted XI
Argentina
For the final, Argentina face no injury or suspension issues. Head coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to maintain an unchanged lineup. The defence will feature a solid back four with Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Nicolas Tagliafico, with Emiliano Martinez as the goalkeeper.
In the midfield, Enzo Fernandez and Rodrigo De Paul are anticipated to keep their places, even though Giovani Lo Celso and Exequiel Palacios are pushing for a start. Angel Di Maria is poised for his international farewell on the right wing. Alexis Mac Allister, who has been impressive on the international stage, will play a crucial role, linking up with Messi from the midfield.
Lionel Messi, who overcame a leg injury to play the full match against Canada, will lead the attack alongside Julian Alvarez. Lautaro Martinez, the tournament’s top scorer, is expected to begin on the bench and should be brought on in the second half.
Predicted Playing XI (4-4-2): Emi. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lis. Martinez, Tagliafico; Mac Allister, E. Fernandez, De Paul, Di Maria; Messi, Alvarez
Colombia
With Daniel Munoz suspended, Santiago Arias is set to start at right-back, joining Davinson Sanchez, Carlos Cuesta, and Johan Mojica in a solid four-man backline. Camilo Vargas will likely be the goalkeeper.
In midfield, Jefferson Lerma and Richard Ríos are expected to form the double pivot, providing protection for the defence and allowing the attacking players to push forward.
Captain James Rodriguez, who has recorded a tournament-high six assists, will continue in the number 10 role. He will be supported by Liverpool’s Luis Diaz and Fluminense’s Jhon Arias on the flanks.
Jhon Cordoba, who has contributed with two goals and two assists, is expected to lead the attack, with Jhon Duran and Rafael Santos Borre available as options.
Predicted Playing XI (4-2-3-1): Vargas; Santiago Arias, Sanchez, Cuesta, Mojica; Rios, Lerma; Jhon Arias, Rodriguez, Diaz; Cordoba
Key Stats
- Victory will see Argentina win their 16th Copa America title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s illustrious history.
- Colombia are unbeaten in their last 28 international games.
- Argentina have won 26 of their 43 meetings against Colombia in all competitions.
- A win for Colombia will see them win just their second Copa America title, their first since 2001.
Match Deciding Duel
Enzo Fernandez (Argentina) vs James Rodriguez (Colombia)
Argentina have been solid in defence and penetrating their backline has proven to be a challenge for most sides in the competition. Colombia have a rather dynamic attack but will depend on the veteran James Rodriguez to act as the playmaker.
With the likes of Luis Diaz able to make the most of opportunities, the onus will be on Enzo Fernandez to ensure Rodriguez does not have space to manoeuvre in. The duel between the two players could certainly set the tone for which way the cookie crumbles on the night.
Prediction
Argentina 2-1 Colombia
The clash is likely to be an entertaining one with the midfield battle expected to set the tone for the result. Argentina. however, have more strength in depth and the ability to bring a player of Lautaro Martinez’s calibre off the bench in the second half is akin to a cheat code. The Inter Milan star is expected to lead the defending champions to a close 2-1 win on the night.
Spain and England will face off for continental supremacy in the Euro 2024 final
As Euro 2024 reaches its climax, the football world braces for a thrilling final between Spain and England at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. This highly anticipated match will determine the champions of Europe, with Spain looking to add to their illustrious history and England aiming to lift the Henri Delaunay Trophy for the first time.
Spain, guided by Luis de la Fuente, entered the tournament somewhat under the radar but quickly established themselves as a formidable contender. They navigated the so-called ‘Group of Death’ with ease, securing nine points from three matches against Croatia, Italy, and Albania. Impressively, they emerged from the group stage without conceding a goal to an opposition player.
In the knockout stages, Spain demonstrated their resilience and quality. A stunning 4-1 comeback against Georgia in the last-16 and a tense extra-time victory over hosts Germany in the quarter-finals showcased their grit and talent. The semi-final against France was another test of their mettle, with young star Lamine Yamal lighting up the Allianz Arena and Dani Olmo sealing the win.
Spain’s journey to the final has not been without challenges, but their blend of experience and youthful exuberance has seen them through. They now stand on the brink of history, aiming to become the first European men’s team to win four major tournaments consecutively.
England’s Euro 2024 campaign has been a rollercoaster. Gareth Southgate’s men had a mixed group stage, winning only once against Serbia and drawing against Denmark and Slovenia. Their knockout phase has been a tale of resilience and drama, coming from behind in both the last-16 and quarter-finals.
A lacklustre win over Slovakia and a penalty shootout victory against Switzerland set the stage for a semi-final clash with the Netherlands. Despite early setbacks, including a goal from Dutch prodigy Xavi Simons, England produced their best performance of the tournament. A late winner from Ollie Watkins, following a perfect penalty from Harry Kane, propelled them to their second consecutive Euro final.
Southgate’s squad has shown incredible determination and character, setting new records along the way. Kane’s scoring feats and the team’s ability to perform under pressure have been pivotal to their success.
We take a look at how both sides could line up on the night and what tactics they might employ.
Team News and Predicted XI
Spain
Spain’s bad-tempered quarter-final against Germany saw Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand fall foul of the referee, leading to their suspensions for the semi-final. Both players are now back at De la Fuente’s disposal, bringing much-needed fresh legs to the Roja XI. Carvajal will replace Jesus Navas, while Le Normand should push Nacho to the bench.
Spain are expected to maintain a 4-3-3 formation with Unai Simon in goal. Daniel Carvajal and Marc Cucurella should hold the flanks in defence, while Robin Le Normand and Aymeric Laporte should form the centre-back pairing. Rodri should form the midfield pivot, with Dani Olmo and Fabian Ruiz pushing forward.
Skipper Alvaro Morata should lead the line with the electric duo of Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams providing support. Morata was initially a concern given his freak injury after the win against France. Thankfully for Spain, he trained normally and should lead them out.
Predicted Playing XI (4-3-3): Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella; Ruiz, Rodri, Olmo; Yamal, Morata, Williams
England
England arrive in Berlin with a fully fit squad, including Luke Shaw, who has recovered from injury. Shaw’s performance against Switzerland and his effective stint in the semi-final suggests he may start, replacing Kieran Trippier at left-back.
Southgate is likely to stick with his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. Jordan Pickford will guard the goal, with a back three of John Stones, Harry Maguire, and Marc Guehi.
Shaw and Kyle Walker will operate as wing-backs, while Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham form the midfield pivot. Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka will support captain Harry Kane in attack. Southgate has enough game-changers on the bench and it remains to be seen if he will have the nerve to make bold calls or play the long game and roll the dice.
Predicted Playing XI (4-3-3): Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Shaw; Bellingham, Foden; Kane
Key Stats
- A victory on the night will see Spain secure their fourth title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s history.
- A win for England will see them triumph in the European Championships for the first time in their history.
- Spain and England have faced off 27 times in all competitions. La Roja have won 10 games while England have won 14. Three games ended in a draw.
- England have never lost to Spain in a UEFA European Championship clash before.
Match Deciding Duel
Lamine Yamal (Spain) vs Luke Shaw (Spain)
Lamal has been a critical difference-maker for Spain in this year’s tournament and will hope to end it on a high. Up against the recently returned Luke Shaw, he will aim to run rings against the English veteran.
Shaw’s ability to get caught out could provide Yamal the space he needs to run into and put the English backline into disarray. This should also subsequently free up Dani Olmo to make his trademarks into the box.
Prediction
Spain 1-1 England (Spain to Win on Penalties)
England will be keen to end their trophy drought and also go one better than last time around. While they have a strong squad with plenty of depth, Southgate’s inability to take calculated risks should play right into Spain’s hands. It remains unlikely that the trophy will go ‘home’ anytime soon.
Argentina and Canada will face off in the first semifinal of Copa America 2024, a repeat of the competition opener from Group A
Canada have a golden opportunity to make history as they face defending champions Argentina in the first semi-final of Copa America 2024 at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday.
In a rematch of their tournament opener, Canada can become the second CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America final. Both sides advanced to the semi-finals via penalty shootouts, with Argentina defeating Ecuador and Canada overcoming Venezuela after 1-1 draws in regular time respectively.
Argentina’s path to the semi-finals has been fortified by their exceptional defence and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The victory over Ecuador secures their fifth consecutive appearance in the Copa America semi-finals. Historically, Argentina have been strong at this stage, progressing in seven of their last eight attempts, with the only setback being against Brazil in 2019.
A triumph on Tuesday would mark the first time Argentina reached the Copa America final as defending champions since 1959. Scaloni’s team has been defensively sound, conceding just once throughout the tournament. The Albiceleste are unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions, allowing only three goals during this period.
On the other hand, Canada has shown remarkable resilience since their initial loss to Argentina. Jesse Marsch’s squad has conceded just once in their last three games. They are the third CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America semi-finals in their debut appearance, following Honduras and Mexico. They are also the first from the region to advance this far since the USA in 2016.
This semi-final marks Canada’s fifth appearance in the final four of a continental tournament this century. They have progressed beyond this stage twice, in the 2023 Nations League and the 2000 Gold Cup. Canada aims to emulate Mexico’s 2001 Copa America run, where Mexico reached the final before losing to Colombia.
Argentina’s defensive stability and tactical discipline under Scaloni will be pivotal, also giving their world-class frontline a base to build upon. Canada, under Marsch, has transformed into a more disciplined and resilient team. Jonathan David and Alphonso Davies will be crucial in breaking down Argentina’s defence. SoccerSouls takes a closer look at this clash.
Team News and Predicted XI
Argentina
Lionel Messi was not at his best against Ecuador and will be keen to make amends for the penalty miss in the shootout. he missed the final group game with a hamstring injury but now appears to be back to full fitness.
Lionel Scaloni is likely to retain his flexible 4-3-3 formation with Emiliano Martínez in goal. He should be protected by the back four of Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez and Marcos Acuna.
Midfielder Leandro Paredes should perform the role of the pivot in the centre, giving Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister and the dynamic Rodrigo De Paul the freedom to push forward. Lionel Messi is expected to don the playmaker’s role with Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez leading the line. Angel Di Maria will offer Argentina another option off the bench should they need to shift gears.
Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Emi. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Li. Martinez, Acuna; Mac Allister, Paredes, De Paul; Messi, La. Martinez, Alvarez
Canada
Inter Milan Tajon Buchanan remains a major doubt for Canada after he suffered a broken tibia during training just days before their match against Venezuela. This injury puts his participation in doubt not just for the semi-final clash against Argentina but also for the remainder of the tournament.
Jesse Marsch has an otherwise fully fit squad to choose from for the clash and is expected to set his side up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Maxime Crépeau in goal. The shot-stopper should be protected by the back four of Alistair Johnston, Moise Bombito, Derek Cornelius, and Alphonso Davies.
Stephen Eustáquio and Jonathan Osorio should form the double pivot, freeing up Jonathan David to act as the playmaker. Cyle Larin should start up front, with Richie Laryea and Jacob Shaffelburg providing support out wide.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Crepeau; Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Osorio, Eustaquio; Laryea, David, Shaffelburg; Larin
Key Stats
- Argentina have never conceded a goal against Canada.
- Argentina have not lost a major tournament match on U.S. soil since a 3-2 defeat to Romania in the 1994 World Cup’s round of 16.
- A win on the night will see Canmada make it to their first-ever Copa America final at the first time of asking.
- Argentina have not made it to the final of the competition as defending champions since 1959.
Match Deciding Duel
Lautaro Martinez (Argentina) vs Derek Cornelius (Canada)
Lautaro Martinez is the top scorer in the tournament this season and has made it a habit of scoring late goals for Argentina. This augurs well for a side that is defensively compact, giving them a second wind to settle the game as the opposition gets tired. Derek Cornelius will have his hands full all night but will know that he cannot slack off for even a second with Martinez on the prowl.
Argentina’s ability to score late coupled with Canada’s vulnerabilities in the second half of the game makes for a thrilling finale in the final 30 minutes of the first semifinal. While Argentina do have several threats and matchwinners in their lineup, Martinez’s clinical touch has given them the edge this summer. He will certainly be aiming to make a difference once again on Tuesday.
Transfer Watch
Jonathan David
The LOSC Lille attacker is Canada’s trump card going forward and is expected to leave the Ligue 1 giants this summer. David is a pacy player whose ability to get into space and clinical ability in the box helps make a difference. While several clubs are keeping tabs on him, a solid showing against the defending FIFA World Cup holders will only help boost his profile among potential suitors.
David will be up against the meanest defence in the competition on the night. The duo of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez aren’t just formidable defenders but their ‘take no prisoners’ approach will certainly add a physical element to the duel. David is unlikely to come up against a meaner backline in the competition and how well he handles this challenge could determine his stock this summer.
Prediction
Argentina 2-0 Canada
Both teams will be familiar with each other having felt each other out on the opening day. The stakes are much higher this time round and Canada will be hoping for a monumental upset. Argentina were handed a late scare against Ecuador and that perhaps will ensure they don’t take Tuesday’s game for granted. The game should be a hard-fought one with Argentina’s match winners making the difference in the second half of the game.
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