Part 3/4:
This method of play presents unique challenges, particularly when facing teams with strong defensive capabilities. The competition’s reliance on long balls, especially during set pieces—whether from free kicks or corner situations—made it arduous to create clear scoring opportunities. Such tactics were evident in the performance against Nottingham Forest as well and proved to be a recurring theme in this match.
Defensive resilience played a crucial role, illustrating how difficult it can be to break through a well-organized low block. The opposing team’s quality in defense created further obstacles, highlighting the complexities teams face when trying to impose their playing style against skilled backlines.