Llion looks at Atletico Madrid ahead of our Champions League clash on Wednesday night.
Atletico Madrid has enjoyed a fruitful start to the new campaign, the Spanish giants are currently unbeaten in all competitions this season, and they’re situated in second place in the La Liga table. In their opening six league games of the new season, they’ve won four and drew two of their fixtures. Their latest victory was secured against Sevilla on the weekend, an impressive 2-0 triumph.
During their first seven games of the new season, Simeone’s side has registered a reputable total of four clean sheets. This defensive solidity entwined with their attacking might ensures that Atletico is one of Europe’s best teams.
Angel Correa and Yannick Ferreira Carrasco have enjoyed productive starts to the new season, with each player scoring a total of three goals. Additionally, Koke has begun the new term in inspired form having scored two and provided two assists.
Formation: 4-4-2
Diego Simeone has opted to utilise the traditional 4-4-2 formation. The strategy itself is typically associated with dull English teams, yet there has been a tendency over recent years to divert from the status quo and experiment tactically – credit to the likes of Antonio Conte.
Nevertheless, this doesn’t render the 4-4-2 a futile strategy; it can prove to be a formation of exceeding benefit if a team possesses the right personnel. The two banks of four in defence and midfield often allow teams to dictate possession and maintain a compact structure.
While Atletico does not currently possess a target man, Correa and Griezmann have collectively scored five goals and registered two assists this season. One can see why the club was eager to sign Diego Costa, as neither Correa and Griezmann are especially proficient at winning aerial battles.
Atletico has several players who are willing to drive the ball forward and take-on their opponent. Thus, we must be prepared to dominate the physical battle, Saúl Ñíguez and Thomas Partey form a formidable partnership at the heart of the pitch, and we must be patient in our attempts to break them down.
It’s going to be an intriguing clash, let us know your thoughts!
