Facing an intense clash with France, the Spanish national team must carefully plan to deal with their star player, Mbappe. According to Spanish newspaper AS, in the absence of Carvajal, Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente has devised a five-step plan aimed at limiting Mbappe’s threat as much as possible.
Step One: Navas’ Early Interception
Spain’s right-back, Navas, will be tasked with confronting Mbappe. While Mbappe’s speed advantage is clear, Navas’ experience and anticipation skills will be crucial. He needs to act quickly, cutting off Mbappe’s attacking lines early on to prevent him from easily entering dangerous territory. When facing the double threat of Mbappe and Barcola, Navas needs to rely on the help of his teammates to create zonal defense, compressing the opponents’ space.
Step Two: Nacho’s Support
If Mbappe manages to bypass Navas, Nacho will act as the second line of defense. Nacho needs to be ready to support, especially when Mbappe attempts to cut inside for a shot. With the absence of Le Normand and Carvajal, Nacho’s role becomes even more important, and he must stay vigilant to prevent Mbappe from finding shooting angles in the box.
Step Three: Laporte’s Sideline Block
When Mbappe changes direction in attack, Laporte will be responsible for defending the flanks. With his excellent short burst acceleration and relatively high average speed, Laporte can effectively track Mbappe, preventing him from creating danger on the wings. Meanwhile, Cucurella will also be watching closely, ready to support and ensure the safety of the flanks.
Step Four: Rodri’s Midfield Command
Rodri, as the midfield brain, will play a tactical core role. He needs to organize the midfield and defense, building a multi-layered defensive system, particularly focusing on France’s quick passing. Rodri not only needs to tactically guide his teammates but also actively participate in interceptions to prevent France from finding Mbappe through internal and vertical passes.
Step Five: Olmo’s High Pressing
Upfront, Dani Olmo will partner with Morata, forming the first line of defense. Olmo’s mission is to press high when France tries to launch attacks from the back, disrupting their long-ball plans. Leveraging Olmo’s physicality and defensive awareness, Spain hopes to win back possession in the opponent’s half, creating opportunities for counterattacks.
These five steps reflect Spain’s comprehensive consideration of Mbappe, from the flanks to the midfield, to the front line, each link is closely connected, forming a solid defensive network. Through teamwork and accurate execution, Spain hopes to effectively contain Mbappe, giving them an advantageous position in the upcoming match.
This article is from a user submission and does not represent the views of Soccer News Pick. If you repost it, please indicate the source: https://www.soccernewspick.com/uefa-european-championship/7785.html
