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Unread 09-06-2011, 02:20 PM   #14 (permalink)
Beebs
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Belgium are basically playing the inverse of our shape; also a 4-3-3, but with 1 midfielder deeper than the other 2, whereas we play 1 in front of 2.

This should, in theory, mean the midfield is pretty tight, everybody has a direct opponent.

The key men, again in theory, would be whichever center back on each team is more comfortable on the ball; something Belgium are leaps and bounds ahead of us in. Since the fullbacks should be concerned with the wide forwards, and since the central striker can only mark one of the center backs, this leaves one free to step into midfield when in possession.

The key battle will be whoever is the deepest of the Belgian midfielders (I assume Felliani, but just turned it on...edit: actually appears to be Simmons the #6) vs Dempsey. If Dempsey can stay free of his man, he will generate chances for goals. If the Belgian is allowed time on the ball, the US will be overrun in midfield and Belgium will dominate possession.
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