How Simeone guided Atletico Madrid to glory

Published

4 years ago

May 23, 2021

admin

For the five thousand Atleti fans gathered in the car park outside the Jose Zorilla Stadium, it was a nerve-wracking 90 minutes.

Diego Simeone and his boys needed a win at all costs to win their first La Liga title since 2013-14.

The opposition was Ronaldo Nazario’s Real Valladolid who were fighting relegation but fully aware that a victory could keep them in the first division.

After Valladolid went into the lead with a strike by Plano, Atletico equalised with a piece of magic by Simeone’s trusted hand, Angel Correa.

However, the killer punch that won the title was delivered, befittingly by Barcelona outcast, Luis Suarez.

The Simeone effect

Simeone is the longest serving manager in Atletico’s history.

In the ruthless world of Spanish football, where only results matter, Simeone has delivered silverware with tiresome regularity.

However, this season was where Simeone displayed his tactical superiority.

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Starting with the inspired acquisition of Luis Suarez.

More importantly, he changed his proven methods to create a system that would suit Suarez the most.

He changed his formation from 4-4-2 to 3-4-3 or 3-5-2.

This enabled better coverage of the field and ensured that Suarez has more players close to him in the attacking half.

As a result, Atletico had more possession and played more passes in the opponent’s half than in the past.

Not surprisingly, possession increased to 50% compared to last season’s 47% and average passes per possession increased from 3.87 to 5.15.

The attacking fluency improved as the average passes in the final third increased from 53.13 to 62.1.

Also, Suarez was not being given too much responsibility to press, leaving him free to exploit the open spaces. His main responsibility was limited to to shielding the defensive midfielder.

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Impressive numbers

Atletico went on to score 67 goals this season which was the joint-second highest.

Also, they conceded the fewest goals (25).

Atletico goal-keeper Jan Oblak made the most saves this season (103) and registered the highest number of clean sheets (18).

Suarez ended as Atletico’s top scorer with 21 goals and also gave three assists.

Another key player was mid-fielder, Marcos Llorente who netted 12 goals and gave 11 assists.

Angel Correa was another creative influence with nine goals and eight assists.

With Real Madrid and Barcelona facing uncertainty owing to financial difficulties, Atletico can build on this success and look to dominate next year too.

With El Cholo (Simeone) at the helm, that looks fully achievable.

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FC Goa Triumphs Over Mohun Bagan with a 2-1 Victory

Published

23 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Maadhav

FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan! FC Goa secured a memorable 2-1 victory against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League at Fatorda Stadium. This high-stakes encounter ended Mohun Bagan’s unbeaten streak, marking a significant moment in the league.

Brison Fernandes opened the scoring for FC Goa in the 13th minute, assisted by Borja Herrera. His shot deflected off Mohun Bagan’s Tom Aldred, giving Goa an early lead. Despite pressing attacks, Mohun Bagan failed to capitalize on opportunities during the first half, keeping FC Goa ahead.

The second half saw Mohun Bagan equalize through Dimitrios Petratos’ penalty, awarded after a handball by Armando. With the match level, momentum shifted briefly in favor of Mohun Bagan. However, FC Goa struck again in the 68th minute as Brison Fernandes headed in Herrera’s precise cross, sealing the lead and eventual victory for the home side. FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan!

FC Goa’s defense stood firm during the closing stages, with Sandesh Jhingan and Odei Onaindia effectively countering Mohun Bagan’s attempts to find another equalizer. This win elevated FC Goa to third place in the league standings with 22 points from 12 matches, showcasing their strong form this season.

The match underscored FC Goa’s resilience and tactical discipline, while Mohun Bagan will aim to bounce back from this setback. Fans were treated to an exciting contest, reflecting the competitive spirit of the league.

FC Goa

FC Goa Host League Leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in ISL Clash

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Maadhav

FC Goa Host League Leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in ISL Clash

FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant! The Indian Super League (ISL) promises an intense showdown as FC Goa faces league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant this Friday at Fatorda. With playoff positions at stake, both teams are set for a thrilling encounter.

FC Goa aims to break into the top three with a win, continuing their unbeaten six-match streak. Striker Armando Sadiku leads the Goa attack with eight goals in ten matches, while midfielders Iker Guarrotxena and Dejan Drazic add creativity. Young goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari’s three clean sheets in five matches provide defensive assurance. FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant!

Mohun Bagan, atop the league with 26 points, has relied on Jamie Maclaren’s scoring consistency and Greg Stewart’s midfield mastery. Although Stewart will miss the match due to injury, the Mariners boast six clean sheets this season, anchored by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.

Both teams have impressive records, with Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season. The match could define playoff aspirations as Mohun Bagan aims to solidify their position, and Goa seeks to climb the rankings. Fans anticipate a tightly contested game between two strong sides showcasing Indian football’s growing quality.

The match is critical for both teams’ playoff aspirations. FC Goa looks to capitalize on their home advantage and attacking prowess, while Mohun Bagan seeks to extend their dominance at the top of the league. With FC Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season, the battle promises to be a showcase of quality football.

Fans are eagerly anticipating this high-stakes clash, which could significantly impact the league’s playoff picture. Both teams have shown resilience and skill, ensuring a thrilling contest.

FC Goa

Mohun Bagan SG and FC Goa Face Off in ISL 2024-25 Thriller

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Maadhav

Mohun Bagan SG faces FC Goa in a thrilling ISL 2024-25 encounter, promising intense action and crucial league implications.

The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 features a highly anticipated clash between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and FC Goa at Fatorda’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday. Both teams come into this encounter in solid form, aiming to strengthen their campaigns at a crucial juncture in the season.

Mohun Bagan leads the standings with an unbeaten streak, registering seven wins and a draw in ISL 2024-25. Their defensive strength is evident, having kept six clean sheets. FC Goa, sitting fourth on the table, boasts a dynamic attacking style, with nine different players contributing goals this season.

This battle between Mohun Bagan’s resolute defense and Goa’s attacking versatility promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Goa seeks to overcome the league leaders and secure vital points to narrow the gap. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan looks to extend its dominance and consolidate its position at the top.

Key players to watch include Mohun Bagan’s defensive stalwarts and Goa’s offensive playmakers. Both sides have demonstrated their capability to adapt to challenging situations, setting the stage for a thrilling contest. With the mid-season point approaching, the match carries significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations.

Fans can expect an intense, action-packed game as two of the ISL’s top teams vie for supremacy. Mohun Bagan’s strategic discipline will be tested against Goa’s creative and relentless attacks. This matchup is a must-watch for football enthusiasts, showcasing the best of Indian football talent.