The Italian
The game we are analysing today is a WSE Champions League Men quarter-finals match between Barça and Sporting, ending 5-4 in Barça's favour. This game was crucial as Barça needed a win with a 3-goal difference to draw the round.
As a reminder, follow these steps:
- Take a look at the video: Barça vs Sporting (5-4) | HIGHLIGHTS WSE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
- Read and think about the analysis
- Match the analysis and the video
I'm not going to type the exact minute of the actions, at this point you all should be able to see actions
This move, although not resulting in a goal, is based on a fundamental tactic known as the "italiana" in Spanish, translating to Italian in English. The italiana is employed to break through tight defensive lines.
Set-Up
The italiana involves dynamic movement with two players positioned on the mid-line in opposite sides, one with the ball in 1 and the other positioned even in their own half, with a third player appearing at 9. The fourth player is typically in position 7 on the same side as the ball or behind the goal.
The Italian
Verona (Sporting Nº14) initiates the move by passing to Joao Souto (Sporting Nº44) and then cutting in next to the wall. Joao advances to position 9, gaining a one-metre advantage from his defender due to his proactive movement. He quickly passes to Nolito Romero (Sporting Nº99) on the weak side, who skates upon receiving the ball.