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Austria vs. Turkey (International Friendly March 29, 2016)


With EURO 2016 looming closer, international friendlies against the top sides are a precursor to the excitement we hope to witness on the big stage. A team I will be supporting throughout the upcoming competition is Turkey. The Crescent-Stars had a rocky qualifying campaign, but their desire to fight until the end is a testament to their potential. Here I will highlight the key features of Turkey's friendly match vs. Austria. What stood out to me the most was how Turkey created a game plan to counteract Austria's intensity. Although Austria started off strong giving Turkey defensive issues, the latter used their attacking talent to turn the result in their favor.

Turkey vs. Netherlands (European Qualifiers September 6, 2016)


It could be said that Turkey's 3 goals against Netherlands were pure luck and merely a result of the opponent's below average performance. However, capitalizing on the opposition's mistakes are a part of the game and Turkey took advantage of this efficiently. It was clear from this match that Turkey placed more emphasis on defensive stability and using counter-attacks to quickly move the ball in unorganized areas. The way that Turkey maintained their shape and limited runs behind their defense contributed to the team not conceding a goal.

Galatasaray vs. Inter (Preseason Friendly Match August 2, 2015)


I take a closer look at how Galatasaray were able to retain possession and control the game against Inter. In the second half, specifically the last 20 minutes of the match, Galatasaray's performance was much stronger. I wanted to focus on Galatasaray's positioning and support, which not only allowed them to move the ball forward, but also play a more dynamic style of football.


Galatasaray fullback Tarik Çamdal draws in Inter players on the right-hand side. This allows Galatasaray to spread out and position themselves in a clear line of pass without losing possession.


Using numerical superiority over Inter, Tarik, Emre, José, and Jem give each other support and options for passing. Galatasaray are able to retain possession and quickly move the ball through this shape.


Once space opens up for José Rodríguez to supply a pass, Umut Bulut moving closer to Rodriguez allows the ball to be played quicker without losing possession at this crucial stage of the build-up.


Utilizing José Rodríguez's sharp passing, Galatasaray can exploit the area out wide while Inter organize their defense and Galatasaray anticipate a cross into the box.


Galatasaray vary the space in between the lines. They use Tarik Çamdal to facilitate the attack from the right flank as well as link up with Emre Çolak who is an outlet to play the ball centrally. Their ability to read each other's movement and thus adjust positioning is an important aspect.


The shape that Galatasaray have organized means they could take advantage of support angles.


Once again Galatasaray using triangulation for angled passes and support in link-up play as they move the ball forward.


Written by: Goral Patel

Lineups:

GS: Muslera, Sabri, Semih, Hakan, Telles, Melo, Selçuk, Hamit, Sneijder, Yasin, Burak

BJK: Günay, Serdar, Atınç, Sivok, Opare, Kerim, Necip, Tolgay, Atiba, Sosa, Ba


The competition in the Super Lig is truly unmatched this season. To further intensify the competitive nature, Galatasaray and Beşiktaş faced off in the penultimate game of the season. Galatasaray didn’t let the pressure get to them as they stepped up to the plate, the 4th star within their reach. The maturity of their performance was reflected in the game plan.

One major part of Galatasaray’s strategy was the organization of their defense. Beşiktaş would play the ball out wide and then cross it in order to take advantage of the space behind the defense. Beşiktaş wanted to play as close as possible to Galatasaray’s defense while pushing them into the box. As a result, Galatasaray were forced to drop back and stay compact. Since Demba Ba is very clever slipping past defenders, the centerbacks (Semih-Hakan) stayed close together to prevent him from running into space. Beşiktaş would initially use diagonal balls in the center of the pitch to bypass Galatasaray’s midfield and then create width to quickly move the ball. An extra layer of defense was added by Melo and Selçuk sitting in front of it. This prevented Ba and Sosa from easily roaming into space in front of goal, but also create room for Sneijder to operate on transitions. Another feature of Galatasaray’s defensive organization was that it offered flexibility. For example, Galatasaray used a 3-man back line to initiate the first phase of the attack [Exhibit 1].

With Telles supporting the attack, Beşiktaş took the opportunity to exploit Galatasaray’s left side. However, this did not pose a huge problem since the 3-man backline was able to stretch across the pitch covering dangerous areas. Also, Sneijder or Yasin would help the fullbacks retrieve the ball on the touchlines.

This leads to the execution of Galatasaray’s attack. The Lions utilized the flanks to create room for the attack to advance forward. Galatasaray’s first goal, courtesy of Yasin, demonstrated a combination of quick reaction time and composure. Breaking down the build-up to Yasin’s goal, Melo was seen assessing his options. Beşiktaş players were keeping an eye on Melo, so Yasin was left open. Melo saw Yasin was unmarked and Selçuk edged back to create space for Melo’s pass. Yasin recognized where Melo will play the ball, so he ran into a clear line of pass [Exhibit 2].


The long, diagonal ball from Melo was received by Yasin and a Beşiktaş defender was pulled out of position trying to close down Yasin. The tackle wasn’t enough to dispossess Yasin as he reacted quickly to play the ball forward. By slightly applying his body weight to the right, Yasin escaped a second tackle. The initial shot was saved by Günay, but Yasin read where the ball was going and swiftly finished the follow-up shot [Exhibit 3].

Since February 16 Yasin Öztekin has been involved in 8 league goals this season (4 goals, 4 assists); the most from any Galatasaray player. Besides scoring goals, Yasin shows that as a valuable player he is able to do more than that. For instance, by tracking Telles’ movement on the ball, Yasin once again exploited the space left open and anticipated a cross into the opposition box [Exhibit 4].

The turnaround Galatasaray has done this season was evident in this match and appreciated by the fans. The grueling preparations done by Hamza Hamzaoğlu and his technical staff have paid off as the exciting race for the 2014/15 Spor Toto Süper Lig comes to an end.


Written by: Goral Patel

Lineups: 

Freiburg: Bürki, Günter, Kempf, Krmas, Riether, Klaus, Darida, Schuster, Schmid, Frantz, Mehmedi

Hannover 96: Zieler, Sakai, Marcelo, Sané, Albornoz, Schmiedebach, Hirsch, Briand, Stindl, Kiyotake, Joselu


Midfield Synergy
Hannover’s proactive approach implemented from the midfield kickstarted their attack. Schmiedebach pushed out to the far right side of the pitch with the support of Lars Stindl and Jimmy Briand. Briand had a positive display contributing in the final third, which was facilitated by linking up with Stindl. He would thread the ball down the line and get involved in creating chances. It shows how Briand has gotten used to the pace of the Bundesliga.

Use of Efficiency
It took a little longer for Freiburg to settle in. Around 20 minutes in, Freiburg started to look more lively. Initially, Freiburg were nervous because Hannover wanted to retain possession and use quick passing to their advantage. However, the likes of Günter, Darida, and Schmid fueled Freiburg into efficiently converting their chances. Things were looking brighter for the home side during the hour mark. They played more confidently and had much closer attempts. On the other hand, Hannover became more predictable in the second half despite being the better side in the first half.

High-Flying Hannover
H96 pushed through being two goals down. The introduction of Leo Bittencourt was a game-changer. It put The Reds on course to grab a point as late drama unfolded. A clever pass from Captain Stindl in the box was finished off by Bittencourt in the 83rd minute and a poor clearance from Roman Burki welcomed a Joselu equalizer in the 93rd minute.

“What a game today! We fought to the last minute and got our reward!” - Lars Stindl

Lineups:

PSG: Sirigu, van der Wiel, Marquinhos, David Luiz, Maxwell, Pastore, Rabiot, Matuidi, Cavani, Ibrahimović, Lavezzi

Subs Used: Lucas Moura (68'), Chantôme (75'), Digne (86')

Ajax: Cillessen, Van Rhijn, Van der Hoorn, Denswil, Boilesen, Klaassen, Serero, Andersen, Schöne, Milik, Kishna

Subs Used: Viergever (10'), Zimling (69')


Analysis:

Ajax were keen to put numbers forward and committed to pressing in PSG’s half. For a majority of the match, they were comfortable with possession and played an attack-minded set up. Ajax’s strengths were in controlling the game, yet remaining patient and composed. However, playing a high line was a weakness. This put them at a greater risk of being caught out of position.

PSG played long balls overhead Ajax players to escape Ajax’s pressing and simultaneously exploited their high line. Also, they used Ajax’s loss of possession to their advantage because it wasn’t easy disturbing Ajax’s rhythm through the midfield. PSG are very strong at linking up and showcasing their finishing ability. Both goals by Ibra and Cavani were an indication of this. For the first goal, Ibra chipped the ball to Lavezzi who checked Cavani’s run, which resulted in a goal. For PSG’s second goal, a giveaway to Lucas, simple pass to Pastore, and a cross in the box to Ibra gave PSG the lead.

Pastore’s contribution to Ibra’s goal showed how crucial he was going forward and creating chances. His distribution of passes to both Ibra and Lavezzi helped in situations where Ajax lost the ball. Another important player was Rabiot. His awareness on and off the ball brought balance to the game. He had the most ball recoveries (14), completed all of his tackles (4), made 4 interceptions, while maintaining 92% pass accuracy. Plus, he would drop deep in between David Luiz and Marquinhos to help build the play.

The understanding between PSG’s central defensive pairing didn’t garner the same attention as the attack, but they were just as involved in the win. David Luiz and Marquinhos brought the best out of each other. This complementary partnership produced a solid performance in defense. When PSG would distribute the ball from the back, there was the risk that Ajax would use this opportunity to apply pressure. However, they were able to respond to the danger by quickly shutting down Ajax. Between the two of them, David Luiz and Marquinhos had 9 interceptions, 2 blocks, and 7 clearances.

Although the score wasn’t in Ajax’s favor, they continue winning hearts with their playing style, talent, and sheer determination. One player who embodies all these attributes is Ricardo Kishna. He’s only 19 years old, but came out fearless on the pitch. He caused problems for PSG on the left and gave Ajax more options out wide. One instance was his super cross to Klaassen in the box who ended up leveling the score with his diving header. Indeed, Kishna has a bright future ahead of him.


*MOTM: Edinson Cavani

Turkey will play a friendly game against Brazil in İstanbul on November 12. The last time these two sides met was in 2007. Turkey have not won against Brazil in a total of 6 meetings, so the stage is set for a very electric atmosphere at Şükrü Saraçoğlu Stadium.

If Turkey play to their strengths, they could grind out a positive result. By utilizing the flanks, Turkey can take the advantage of the fullbacks’ overlapping runs to link up with players on the wing. This allows them to cross the ball in dangerous areas. Brazil will be looking to retain the ball and take control of the game, so Turkey may be restricted from their pass-oriented approach. However, a focused performance in midfield can disturb Brazil’s rhythm and bring back possession in Turkey’s favor. Individual moments of brilliance will be key against a motivated Brazilian side. With the good, comes the bad. There are certain weaknesses Turkey will have to keep in mind. Although they tend to start off strong, they have trouble keeping up the intensity for 90 minutes. This impacts their ability to capitalize on chances. They may get very limited goal-scoring opportunities, so the attack has to fully concentrate on execution in the build-up. Also, Turkey will have to make the most of their set piece situations. Another issue is the defensive lapses. The team is most vulnerable when losing possession. This can pose a problem against the quick interchange of Brazil’s players. Whether Turkey win or lose, this is a good moment to see where the team stands against a formidable opponent. As the underdog, Turkey will enter the arena with the support of the home crowd. Pride is always on the line in football. Projected Lineup: Volkan Demirel, Caner Erkin, Bekir İrtegün, Semih Kaya, Gökhan Gönül, Mehmet Topal, Selçuk İnan, Gökhan Töre, Olcay Şahan, Arda Turan, Burak Yılmaz

Written by: Goral Patel

FIFA was under investigation after accusations of corruption were brought up in the selection process of the 2018 and 2022 World Cup bids. Michael Garcia is the lead investigator in charge of this case. A 350 page report was issued by FIFA’s Ethics Committee in September which brought some insight into this investigation.

FIFA’s chief adjudicator, Hans-Joachim Eckert, announced that the report will not be published in it’s entirety. Due to legal reasons, an overview of this report will only be released in November. It is worth noting that Garcia and several other FIFA executive members urged this report should be available in full.

“Publishing the report in full would actually put the FIFA Ethics Committee and FIFA itself in a very difficult situation legally. What is more, we have to respect the personal rights of the people mentioned in the report, which in the case of full publication of the report would in all likelihood not be possible.” -Hans-Joachim Eckert (FIFA.com)

It is understandable that publishing the full report would cause problems. Legal issues can arise since individuals involved in this case would want his or her name left in confidentiality. It is the Ethics Committee’s duty to protect those who want to remain undisclosed, especially if a number of these people hold an important roles in the organization. Revealing the names of witnesses could be detrimental to his or her reputation.

Many people are pushing for transparency. Open communication is something FIFA does not excel in. This organization is constantly subjected towards corruption allegations. Bribery is a common topic brought up when dealing with corruption charges, such as the investigation associated with World Cup bids. Transparency removes barriers that can distort the perception of an organization. Once FIFA eliminates hidden agendas and practice greater ethical standards, it will then improve the identity of this organization.

Written by: Laxmi Patel

Turkey have all the tools to play eye-to-eye against any opponent. Although the EURO 2016 campaign has been less than ideal, it is a test of the players’ resolve. Against both Czech Republic and Latvia they showcased their strengths and weaknesses. Here are the takeaways:

1. Starting off strong
Turkey dictated the tempo of the match through their work on the ball. They held onto a majority of possession and looked to maintain fluidity. They were keen to build from the back and use players in the heart of midfield to pick out those stationed out wide. This would create overlapping runs on the flanks. Turkey’s proactive approach was their strength in supplying numbers into the box. Not only did this cause problems for the opposition’s defense, but it also forced them to play deep. Turkey moving the ball as much as possible out of their own half took pressure off their back line as well.

2. Arda Turan the main attraction
Arda’s work ethic is admirable. He was heavily involved in combinations and linked up well with Olcay Şahan and Gökhan Töre in the final third. His ability to trick players around him and then drive through space is a joy to watch. Arda Turan’s technique and control stood out in moments where the opposing teams wanted to stay compact. His dribbling was effective when they left the midfield open. Czech Republic and Latvia concentrated on putting Arda off the ball in order to subdue Turkey’s spark.

3. The missing component
Without Ömer Toprak as a center-back option, Mehmet Topal was slot into that role. Due to Mehmet’s absence in midfield, Turkey were missing his defensive quality. They were lacking someone to close down the middle of the park and break up play. This is one reason both Czech Republic and Latvia were able to quickly execute dangerous counter-attacks. There wasn’t enough emphasis on defense with Turkey’s attack-minded set up.

4. Lack of “Plan B”
Turkey started with a spring in their step, but they faded as the game wore on. They weren’t able to keep up the intensity for 90 minutes. The chances were coming, but they just couldn’t capitalize. Turkey ran out of ideas and could not formulate a Plan B when things weren’t going their way. Once Czech Republic recognized Turkey’s strength in supplying numbers into the box, they crowded out that area. Latvia relied on low blocking to cut off Turkey’s chances in front of goal. When the team couldn’t adapt to these situations, it proved to be costly.

The European Qualifiers have been a challenging task full of surprises. Turkey will need to kick it up a notch with this being the first time they have failed to win their opening three games in qualifiers since 1992 (Opta). However, they have the personnel to make it happen. Once injured players are incorporated back into the squad, this could address some of the tactical issues. Turkey are facing an uphill battle, but it isn't impossible. Victory is sweeter when it’s hard fought.


Written by: Goral Patel

Getty Images

Getty Images

Getty Images

Analysis

At 5 feet 11 inches and 165 pounds, he stands as a pillar of strength. He’s a valuable piece of the puzzle. When you leave this piece out, the picture is left incomplete. As one of Fenerbahçe’s most in-form players, Caner Erkin’s 3 goals and 14 assists culminated a successful 2013/14 season for the Yellow Canaries.



Caner is Fenerbahçe’s staple on the left. With his experience as a left-back and winger, he can single-handedly change the momentum of a game. He takes the responsibility of creating something out of nothing while adding urgency to Fenerbahçe’s style. Not only does he influence open play, but he also delivers on set pieces. He’s able to pinpoint players from crosses, corner kicks, and free kicks. This allows him to pick out Sow, Webó, or Emenike in the most dangerous areas.


The sign of a unique player is one who makes complex moves look natural and effortless. Caner Erkin’s vision and execution are needed in high pressure situations. When there are pockets of space, he dribbles past players with ease. Caner’s quick movements do not give opposing players the time to process what’s going on around them. His charging runs are key to beating his man in one-on-one situations or taking on two defenders. This ability to foresee events on the pitch and get into good positions are key factors of Fenerbahçe’s unpredictability in attack.

Chosen as Turkish Player of the Year, it’s no surprise Caner Erkin was approached by high-profile clubs in Europe. However, he sealed his fate with Fenerbahçe by signing a two-year contract extension until 2016. From an interview in 2010 he revealed,

“Fenerbahçe has a lot to give to me and I also have a lot to give to Fenerbahçe...despite being young I have a lot of confidence in myself” (Fenerbahçe Worldwide). 

The İstanbul giants have big aspirations and Caner Erkin is doing everything he can to meet them.

In the 2014-15 season of the Bundesliga, Hannover 96 will have the youngest squad in the league with an average age of 23.8 years (Transfermarkt). As captain of Die Roten, Lars Stindl has what it takes to steer his team to a successful season.

Via Spox

Core Attributes: Leadership, Versatility, Dynamism, Stamina

First and foremost, he possesses calmness and composure on the pitch. By taking the leadership role, he sets an example with his work ethic and professionalism. He has been at the club since 2010, so his experience is key going into the new campaign.

As a right-footed player, he can play on the right, center, or deeper in midfield. Also, he can showcase his creative side when playing behind the striker. Since Tayfun Korkut switched Stindl to the attacking midfield on Matchday 30, this positively affected the team dynamic. Hannover were unbeaten in 5 consecutive games, which was the most for them in the 2013-2014 Bundesliga season. Stindl will most likely feature as the play-maker in future games after switching to the #10 shirt.

Via Spox

The amount of responsibilities Lars Stindl takes on is vital for H96 and it's noticeable when he isn't playing. According to statistics provided by WhoScored from the previous season, 42% of Hannover’s overall attack came from the right side and 43% of the action zone was in the middle third. Stindl knows how to make use of space when racing down the flank or roaming around the opponent’s box. Not only that, his mobility is important in transitions and connecting the attack and defense. This shows how involved he is in the production of goal-scoring opportunities.

As the face of Hannover, Lars Stindl can be the spark that brings success to Lower Saxony. He makes his presence felt on the pitch, is ready to play wherever the manager needs him, and sets the bar with his commitment level. Stindl's flexibility in different roles will serve as an advantage for The Reds throughout the season. A quality player who fights for the shirt week in and week out is an asset for any team.

Via Sportschau

A year ago, I wrote a piece explaining the 'Top 5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Love David Luiz'. I'm back now to tell you why you should love him even more (if that's possible). After Brazil's 2-1 win against Colombia, people began to notice how much of a great guy Luiz truly is. His qualities make him a wonderful role model on and off the pitch.

Sit back and enjoy this post. (To read the original click here.)

1. David Luiz has a lot of passion for Brazil.
David Luiz is one of the most passionate players that you will ever come across in this World Cup. Expect him to belt out Brazil's national anthem prior to kick-off and try to pump up the crowd during the game. He feeds off of the atmosphere from the stands and will always give his 100 percent.


Storytime: Back in his Benfica days, Luiz had the option to represent Portugal instead of Brazil. He kindly declined the offer since Brazil was his only choice.

2. That goal.
Luiz's unique technique has us wondering how he does it. This free kick is far from ordinary. You probably have already seen this goal multiple times. Yes, multiple times.

3. That celebration.
BEAST MODE! This is Luiz's second goal in this competition.
4. David Luiz embodies true sportsmanship.
After Colombia's loss against Brazil, James Rodriguez was completely devestated. Realizing this, David Luiz came over to the Colombian to comfort him. Luiz urged the crowd to applaud the player as a sign of respect. Afterwards, both players gave each other hugs and swapped jerseys. This is an example of great sportsmanship.