Tottenham Hotspur's Brazilian Sandro gave a master-class in how to defend in the midfield. Time after time against AC Milan, Sandro was in the right place and the right time with his right boot. He made umpteen tackles, numerous blocks, while his distribution to his Spurs teammates was usually sharp and accurate.
You can see his defensive stats below: 8 tackles won, 0 lost & 8 successful interceptions. Not bad at all.
Here are the video highlights from the night. I also like who he not only intercepts the ball or tackles the opponent, but also quickly finds a teammate in one or two touches so his team can retain possession.
The central midfielder individual tasks when opponent has the ball
- primary task is to eliminate goal threat
- be able to defend zone or mark
- be strong in 1:1 duel
- attack on the ball/intercept
- keep player in front (goal side)
- step in front of the mark at the right moment
- cut off passing lanes to opposition forwards
- good defensive header
- defensive support
- be explosive/fast
- preventive coaching of teammates
- able to play 1:1, without backing
- strong, defensive header
- be able to lock down against 2 strikers
- delay opponent as long as necessary
- deal with emerging players by good positioning
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