lankyguy007Di Maria often plays on the right but because of Alves' obvious attacking ability and sheer will to go forward, Di Maria would be better suited than Ronaldo to stop the runs of Alves. Madrid would play a narrow back four, stopping any inside runs from Pedro and Villa and centre backs and defensive midfielders have to communicate well and be aware of Messi's positions as he often drifts all over the place. Alonso is playing so that they can have a link between the defence and the attack and Ronaldo playing on the right against the less attacking Abidal would allow more space for him to run into and allow for some diagonal balls from Alonso. Alonso and Khedira would also have to play quite narrow to try and avoid any through balls down the centre to Messi. Ozil has to be tight on Busquets who is a big part of Barcelona's possession play, but he also has to be ready to counter attack. Higuain could drift to the right when Barcelona have the ball to try and take advantage of Alves drifting forward although Barcelona often play a back three when they have the ball in the midfield to stop any counter attacks, with the left back moving into a more central position and Puyol drifting over to the right.

05.02.2011