Creating and Exploiting Space Between Lines: Euro 2012 Final Spain Case Study
In 2012, Spain started the Euro Final vs. Italy without any clear strikers. It was a team of 4 defenders and 6 midfielders. The starting line up looked something like this:
But you can just throw that in the bin because the front five midfielders were constantly interchanging positions (Busquets held his position in front of Ramos and Pique).
And to be even more precise, they were interchanging positions to constantly create 2v1s to get behind Italy’s midfield line.
They made football so simple in this game ➡️ Support the ball carrier behind the Italian midfielder that was pressing.
This creates a dilemma for the both the Italian midfield line and the Italian Backline:
DO I STEP TO THE BALL OR DO I HOLD THE LINE?
Let's look at an example.
The midfield line decides to step to Busquets freeing Xabi Alonso.
The CB has to decide whether to step or hold.
The CB steps so Iniesta makes a run behind the line.
Spain was constantly putting Italy in a state of indecision.
As Cesc Fabregas told me:
🗣️ “I always positioned myself about 4-5 meters in front of the backline so I wouldn’t have a clear mark, and above all else, I could surprise them by going behind when the timing was right.”
Surprising the opposition means that they are caught in unexpected situations.
Moments of unpredictability 🤷♂️
This is the true marker of a good attack.
DeBruyne is a prime example ⬇️
I have clipped together the best examples of Spain exploiting the blindside of the Italian midfield line to then force the backline into a decision.
As you watch, I want you to notice all the interchanges that occur to have players constantly supporting the ball carrier between opposition back line and midfield line.
Along with their positioning between lines, I want you to notice the timing of the run back to support the ball carrier or the timing of a breaking run in behind the back line. The timing is perfectly in sync with their teammates as well as the defender.
Enjoy this wonderful dance!
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