Brazil’s Tactical Evolution: A Win Born from Adaptation

 Amidst the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming Copa América, which had been controversially relocated to Brazil, and the swirling rumours of head coach Tite’s potential resignation, Brazil faced Ecuador in a crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier at Porto Alegre. Despite a somewhat underwhelming start, Brazil managed to secure all three points, maintaining their perfect record in the qualifiers, unlike Argentina and Uruguay, who both dropped points in their respective fixtures. However, the match exposed both the strengths and the weaknesses of the Selecao, highlighting a tactical evolution that would prove pivotal in the game’s outcome.

Tite’s Tactical Setup: A Test of Balance

Tite’s approach to this match was initially marked by a conservative midfield structure. He opted for a double pivot in central midfield, with Casemiro and Fred tasked with anchoring the midfield. This setup left Lucas Paqueta to function as the sole playmaker, a role that required immense responsibility, given the limited mobility provided by the two defensive midfielders. Fred’s inclusion in the lineup, while offering defensive stability, inadvertently stifled Brazil’s offensive fluidity, placing even more burden on Neymar, who has long been the focal point of opposition defences. The Ecuadorian defenders, well aware of Neymar’s creative prowess, kept him under constant pressure, making it even harder for Brazil to find their rhythm.

The opening 20 minutes were uneventful, with neither team creating anything of note. Brazil struggled to gain control of the game, unable to break down Ecuador’s defence despite a series of set-piece opportunities. Neymar’s 35-yard free-kick, which threatened to be the breakthrough, only served to underline Brazil’s frustration as the ball skittered wide of the mark, evading both Richarlison and the Ecuadorian goalkeeper, Dominguez.

Gabriel Barbosa, affectionately known as Gabigol, was selected as the central striker after his stellar performances for Flamengo. However, his night was one of missed opportunities. A disallowed goal for offside and a series of squandered chances left him visibly frustrated. After just over an hour on the pitch, Gabigol was substituted—a decision that reflected his inability to make an impact on a night that seemed to demand more from Brazil’s forwards.

The Tactical Shift: A Move Towards Fluidity

As the first half drew to a close, it was clear that Brazil’s rigid, possession-based approach was not yielding results. Tite recognized the need for a tactical shift, one that would inject fluidity and dynamism into Brazil’s play. The substitution of Fred for Gabriel Jesus was a key move. Jesus was deployed on the right, while Richarlison, who had been operating as a left-wing forward, was moved into the central striker role, with Neymar playing just behind him. This adjustment transformed Brazil’s shape into a more attacking 4-2-4, and it was here that the Selecao began to find their rhythm.

The fluidity of the new formation allowed Neymar to drop deeper into midfield, where he could orchestrate play. One such moment of brilliance came when Neymar laid the ball off to Richarlison, who cut inside and fired a shot on goal. The breakthrough came moments later, as Neymar, having received the ball near the byline, expertly delivered a pass to Richarlison, who slalomed through the Ecuadorian defence and calmly slotted the ball into the net. The deadlock was broken, and Brazil began to play with more freedom, their attacking shape now more fluid and less predictable.

Yet, despite this newfound fluidity, Brazil’s performance remained imperfect. The lack of a clinical edge in front of goal remained evident, as evidenced by Neymar’s missed penalty in the dying moments of the game. Brought down inside the area, Neymar had the chance to double Brazil’s advantage from the spot. However, his tame effort was easily saved by Dominguez. In a bizarre turn of events, the referee ordered a retake due to the Ecuadorian goalkeeper’s early movement off the line. Neymar, undeterred, made no mistake the second time, dispatching the ball with a nonchalant chip that sent Dominguez the wrong way.

Ecuador’s Offensive Threat: A Frustrating Evening

Coming into the match, Ecuador had been in scintillating form, scoring 13 goals in just four qualifiers—more than any other team in the region. Their attacking firepower, led by Enner Valencia and Angel Mena, had already inflicted heavy defeats on Uruguay and Colombia. Yet, in Porto Alegre, Brazil’s defense held firm, limiting Ecuador’s chances and leaving their forwards isolated.

Eder Militao was a standout performer at the back, his leadership and positional awareness were crucial in nullifying Ecuador’s counter-attacks. The Real Madrid defender was a constant presence in the heart of Brazil’s defense, snuffing out any danger with timely interceptions and well-placed tackles. His calmness under pressure and ability to read the game allowed Brazil to maintain control, even as Ecuador sought to break forward on the counter. Militao’s performance, though largely under the radar, was the bedrock of Brazil’s defensive solidity.

Alongside Militao, Marquinhos formed a formidable partnership at the back, ensuring that Ecuador’s attacking duo of Valencia and Mena were kept at bay. The Brazilian defence, though not entirely flawless, was resolute, offering a strong foundation upon which the team could build.

The Bigger Picture: Brazil’s Path Forward

In the end, Brazil’s 2-0 victory over Ecuador was a testament to Tite’s tactical adaptability and his ability to make key changes when necessary. The Selecao were not at their best, but they displayed the resilience and flexibility needed to secure all three points. The win marked Brazil’s fifth consecutive victory in the qualifiers, but it also highlighted areas that need improvement, particularly in terms of finishing and attacking fluidity.

As Brazil looks ahead to their next challenge—facing Paraguay with a defence that has shown cracks at times—the team will need to find a more consistent rhythm in attack. The fluidity that was introduced with the 4-2-4 formation must become a more permanent fixture in their play, and the team’s attacking players must take greater responsibility in front of the goal. With Neymar at the helm, Brazil’s attacking potential remains undeniable, but the key will be to find the right balance between defensive solidity and attacking verve.

While the match against Ecuador was far from a flawless performance, it underscored the importance of adaptability in high-stakes qualifiers. Tite’s tactical flexibility and the contributions of key players like Neymar, Richarlison, and Militao ensure that Brazil remain a formidable force in South American football.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Real Madrid: Can Carlo Ancelotti Fulfill the Expectations?

 

On June 25, 2013, Carlo Ancelotti stepped into the spotlight as Real Madrid’s new manager, succeeding José Mourinho in one of football’s most pressurized roles. Ancelotti, armed with a three-year contract and a wealth of experience, faced the monumental task of leading Los Blancos to greatness once more. As he was introduced at the Santiago Bernabeu, it was announced that Zinedine Zidane and Paul Clement would serve as his assistant coaches, forming a support system built on insight and tactical acumen.

The Ancelotti Philosophy and Legacy 

Ancelotti’s Real Madrid tenure would mark a tactical pivot. He moved away from Mourinho’s 4–2–3–1 setup, instead implementing a dynamic 4–3–3 formation that allowed players like Ángel Di María to shine. Di María, often deployed as a left-sided central midfielder, emerged as a linchpin, fueling Real Madrid’s offensive power and versatility. The 4–3–3’s emphasis on fluid movement and pressing proved essential, enabling the team to balance attacking freedom with structural integrity—a strategy that began yielding rewards as they advanced through the season.

In April 2014, Ancelotti celebrated his first major triumph with Real Madrid, clinching the Copa del Rey in a fiercely contested final against Barcelona, held at Valencia’s Mestalla Stadium. Just two weeks later, Real Madrid emphatically defeated Bayern Munich in the Champions League semifinals, securing a place in their first final since 2002. On May 24, they faced Atlético Madrid, and in a dramatic finale, Sergio Ramos’s last-minute header forced extra time, setting the stage for Real Madrid’s historic “La Décima”—their long-awaited tenth Champions League title. Ancelotti’s achievement was monumental, joining Liverpool’s Bob Paisley as the only manager to win the competition three times and becoming the first man to do so as both player and manager.

Beyond La Décima, Ancelotti guided Real Madrid to further silverware, capturing the UEFA Super Cup with a 2–0 victory over Sevilla and later securing the FIFA Club World Cup. During these four months of triumph, his team set a Spanish record with 22 consecutive wins across all competitions. By the close of 2014, Real Madrid had added four trophies to their cabinet, underscoring Ancelotti’s Midas touch. His efforts earned him a place among the three finalists for the 2014 FIFA World Coach of the Year Award, and he was also inducted into the Italian Football Hall of Fame.

Return to Real Madrid 

However, the 2014–15 season would see the resurgence of Barcelona, with Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Luis Suárez forming an unstoppable trio. Despite Real Madrid’s strong showing and a remarkable 118 goals in La Liga, they ultimately finished second behind their Catalan rivals. Though the team was still formidable, President Florentino Pérez made the controversial decision to part ways with Ancelotti, appointing Rafa Benítez in his place. Benítez’s tenure was short-lived, however, as Real Madrid’s performances faltered, eventually leading to Zidane’s appointment—a move that would see the club re-enter a golden era.

Meanwhile, Ancelotti’s career continued abroad, with managerial stints at Bayern Munich, Napoli, and Everton. While there were moments of brilliance, Ancelotti’s achievements seemed to wane, as the consistency and magic of his earlier years at AC Milan and Real Madrid remained elusive. At Napoli, tensions with club owner Aurelio De Laurentiis led to an abrupt dismissal despite Champions League qualification, and at Everton, an initially promising season ended with a disappointing 10th-place finish.

Yet fate would bring Ancelotti back to Real Madrid in 2021. Following Zinedine Zidane’s departure, Florentino Pérez sought a steady hand to navigate the club’s period of transition. Though Ancelotti’s recent record was less illustrious than before, his familiarity with Real Madrid’s pressures and expectations made him a fitting choice. Rejoining Los Blancos meant shouldering the weight of a new era—one where he would need to blend emerging talents with established stars to forge a cohesive, trophy-winning unit.

Path Forward

While Ancelotti’s first tenure saw him manage some of the world’s brightest stars at their peak, his return finds him at the helm of a younger, evolving squad. His challenge now lies in cultivating resilience, consistency, and the kind of tactical finesse that once powered Real Madrid’s successes. Ancelotti knows the stakes; at Real Madrid, results matter above all else. Titles are the currency of success, and the fans demand them with every passing season.

The path ahead may be arduous, but if there is one manager adept at navigating both peaks and valleys, it is Carlo Ancelotti. His return is both a nod to his storied past and an opportunity to craft a new legacy—a journey that will undoubtedly test his mettle but could once again yield greatness.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Thomas Tuchel: The Architect of Chelsea’s Resurgence

When the UEFA Champions League of the 2020-21 season kicked off nearly a year ago, Chelsea were not even remotely considered as one of Europe’s top contenders. The Blues were in disarray under Frank Lampard, with the team languishing in mid-table and their star-studded squad failing to live up to expectations. Lampard, once a club legend, was sacked, and the Stamford Bridge faithful braced themselves for yet another managerial upheaval. Meanwhile, across the English Channel in Paris, another high-profile managerial casualty occurred. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) parted ways with Thomas Tuchel, and within days, the German tactician found himself taking charge of a Chelsea team that had been drifting aimlessly. What followed was nothing short of a footballing renaissance.

Upon his appointment in January 2021, Tuchel’s initial goal was simple: to guide Chelsea back into the Champions League for the following season via a top-four Premier League finish. The idea of him leading the team to Champions League glory seemed almost absurd. Chelsea, a club struggling to find its identity and purpose, was hardly equipped to take on Europe’s elite. But Tuchel, with his meticulous attention to detail and unwavering belief in his methods, set about reshaping the team’s mentality. In a club where self-belief had been lacking, Tuchel’s first challenge was to instil the mentality of a champion.

A Perfectionist’s Approach: The Tuchel Method

Tuchel’s coaching philosophy is built upon an obsessive attention to detail and an insatiable desire for perfection. His former colleague, Christian Heidel, recalls a moment during a training camp in Austria when Tuchel became so enamoured with the quality of the pitch that he contemplated hiring the groundsman for Mainz. It’s a small anecdote, but it encapsulates Tuchel’s approach to football: every detail matters, and everything must be perfect.

“He thinks about football 24/7,” Heidel says. “Every training has to be perfect. He plays the game in his head beforehand. He needs everything to go according to plan, especially tactical discipline – where the players are standing, where they have to go. This makes it very hard to play against teams coached by Thomas.”

Tuchel’s focus on tactical discipline and precision is not limited to the field; it extends to every facet of his coaching. He demands total commitment from his players, not just in terms of physical effort, but in their understanding of the game. His passion for winning can sometimes manifest as frustration, but it is always coupled with a deep emotional connection to his players. As Heidel notes, “If there is a loss, it’s almost like physical pain. He’s very emotional. He can blow up at players because he’s so eager to win. But he’s also someone who will hug them afterwards.”

This emotional intensity, combined with a profound understanding of the game, has made Tuchel one of the most respected tactical minds in football. His former mentor, Erich Rutemoller, recalls how Tuchel’s passion for learning was evident even in his early coaching days. “He understood the science of training, sports medicine, physiology, and psychology,” Rutemoller says. “He was already a very good student. He was pretty quiet. He was watching and listening. And he was smart.”

Transforming Chelsea: From Chaos to Control

In less than five months, Tuchel transformed Chelsea from a team in turmoil into European champions. His tactical acumen, combined with his ability to connect with players on a personal level, played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s resurgence. Tuchel’s first act as Chelsea manager was to restore balance to the team. He quickly recognized the importance of N’Golo Kanté, deploying him in a central midfield role where his world-class ability to break up opposition attacks and dictate play became the foundation of Chelsea’s success. Kanté’s influence in the Champions League final against Manchester City was undeniable, as he dominated the midfield and even contributed with a crucial goal-scoring run.

Tuchel’s defensive solidity was equally impressive. By reintroducing Antonio Rudiger into the heart of the defence and employing a tactical setup that emphasized pressing and closing down spaces, he made Chelsea a formidable unit. Under Tuchel, Chelsea became a team that not only defended with discipline but also attacked with purpose. The team’s balance, both defensively and offensively, was a direct result of Tuchel’s tactical brilliance.

Outwitting Europe’s Elite

One of Tuchel’s most impressive feats was his ability to outwit some of the most accomplished coaches in world football. In the 2020-21 season, Tuchel faced off against the likes of Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp, Carlo Ancelotti, Diego Simeone, Jose Mourinho, and Zinedine Zidane. Remarkably, Chelsea did not lose to any of these top-tier coaches, conceding just two goals in the process. Tuchel’s tactical approach was particularly effective against Guardiola’s Manchester City, whom he defeated in the Champions League final.

In that final, Guardiola’s decision to exclude Fernandinho, the anchor of City’s midfield, was a curious one. Without the Brazilian’s stabilizing presence, City’s midfield was more vulnerable, and Tuchel capitalized on this weakness. By pressing high and exploiting the spaces left by City’s high defensive line, Chelsea were able to control the game. Tuchel’s tactical masterstroke was evident in the way he used his players: Reece James nullified Raheem Sterling’s threat, while Mason Mount’s incisive pass to Kai Havertz resulted in the only goal of the match, a moment that will be etched in Chelsea’s history.

A Tactical Revolution: The Importance of Mentality

Tuchel’s success at Chelsea cannot be attributed to tactics alone. His ability to instill a winning mentality in his players was equally crucial. In a club that had previously lacked consistency and belief, Tuchel made it his mission to build a team that thought about winning every time they took the field. This shift in mindset was evident in the Champions League final, where Chelsea played with the confidence and composure of seasoned champions.

Tuchel’s influence extended beyond the tactical realm; he nurtured a team spirit that was vital to Chelsea’s success. His relationship with the players was built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to excellence. As his former mentor Hermann Badstuber notes, Tuchel’s coaching style created a sense of brotherhood among the players. “He built a very tight relationship with the players. It felt like not just a player-coach relationship. We were like brothers.”

Writing His Name in Chelsea’s History

When Tuchel arrived at Chelsea, few could have predicted the impact he would have. The club was in disarray, and the prospect of winning the Champions League seemed remote. Yet, less than five months later, Tuchel had transformed Chelsea into European champions. His tactical brilliance, emotional intelligence, and relentless pursuit of excellence were key to this remarkable achievement.

In Porto, as Tuchel stood among the glittering trophies and blue confetti, it was clear that he had written his name into Chelsea’s history. The triumph was not just a victory in a single match, but the culmination of a process that had begun with Tuchel’s unwavering belief in his methods and his ability to transform a team in crisis into champions of Europe.

For Chelsea, Thomas Tuchel is not just a coach; he is the architect of a new era. His legacy will be defined by more than just the trophies he won; it will be remembered for the mentality he instilled in his players, the tactical revolution he implemented, and the history he helped write.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Zinedine Zidane: A Legacy of Resilience, Tactical Brilliance, and Unyielding Leadership

 

When Zinedine Zidane returned to Real Madrid in March 2019, the club was in disarray. The once-dominant force in European football had suffered a humiliating exit from the Champions League at the hands of Ajax, and in La Liga, they were floundering amid a rebuilding phase. The departure of Cristiano Ronaldo had left a void in attack, and the team, devoid of a reliable goal-scorer, lacked the confidence and cohesion that had been the hallmark of their past successes. Some of the club’s marquee signings had failed to deliver, and the sense of crisis was palpable.

Zidane, the captain of the ship during its most glorious years, returned to steady the course. In the two seasons that followed, he not only resurrected the team’s fortunes but also imbued it with a renewed sense of self-belief, resilience, and tactical innovation. His departure at the end of the 2020-21 season marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the titles he won and the trophies he lifted.

Real Madrid’s official statement upon Zidane’s departure read, “It’s time to respect his decision and show him our thanks for his professionalism, dedication, and passion over the years, which is what his figure represents at Real Madrid.” Indeed, Zidane’s stature at the club is not merely defined by his trophies, but by the enduring influence he has had both as a player and as a coach. As the statement further noted, "Zidane is one of Real Madrid's great icons and his legend goes further than what he's done as a coach and player of this club."

The Rebirth of Real Madrid: Zidane’s First Act

Zidane’s return to the helm came after he had already achieved the pinnacle of European football, having led Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League titles. However, his second stint began amid a club in crisis. The first season was marked by immediate challenges, but Zidane quickly restored order. By the end of the 2019-20 season, Real Madrid had secured their first La Liga title since 2017, a remarkable achievement in the post-Cristiano Ronaldo era.

The season had begun with Real Madrid trailing their arch-rivals Barcelona for much of the campaign. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Zidane’s side had already dropped points in 11 matches, with eight draws and three losses. Yet, when the league resumed after the break, Real Madrid found a new resolve. While Barcelona faltered under the pressure, dropping points to Celta Vigo, Sevilla, and Atletico Madrid, Zidane’s Real Madrid surged forward, winning 10 consecutive matches to clinch the title dramatically.

Zidane’s words after winning the 34th La Liga title reflected the emotional weight of the triumph: “The Champions League is the Champions League, but La Liga makes me happier because La Liga is what it’s all about. This is a tremendous feeling because what these players have done is incredible. I am lost for words because I am too emotional.”

The 2020-21 Season: A Season of Adversity and Tactical Mastery

The 2020-21 season presented Zidane with a different set of challenges. Injuries ravaged the squad, and the COVID-19 pandemic continued to affect the team’s rhythm and performance. Yet, despite these setbacks, Zidane’s leadership remained unwavering. Real Madrid fought to the very end, with their title hopes hanging by a thread until the final day of the season. A victory over Villarreal was not enough, as Atletico Madrid’s triumph over Real Valladolid sealed the La Liga title for their city rivals.

It was a season that ended without silverware, but Zidane’s resilience in the face of adversity garnered widespread respect. With 62 injuries and a team plagued by the absence of key players, Zidane’s tactical ingenuity was put to the test. The Frenchman’s ability to adapt his plans and innovate with player positioning was crucial. He relied on the versatility of players like Karim Benzema, Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo Goes, Fede Valverde, Nacho Fernandez, and Eder Militao, each of whom grew in confidence and skill under Zidane’s mentorship. His tactical flexibility, even in the most trying circumstances, allowed these players to shine, nurturing their all-round qualities and preparing them for future success.

Zidane’s Tactical Philosophy: A Legacy of Innovation and Resilience

Zidane’s legacy is not solely defined by the trophies he won but by his ability to instil a mentality of resilience and tactical adaptability within the squad. His success rate—174 wins, 53 draws, and 36 losses in 263 matches—speaks volumes about his efficiency and ability to get the best out of his players. His win percentage of 66% is the highest in Real Madrid’s history, a testament to his tactical brilliance.

Zidane’s second spell at the helm saw him face a squad in transition, but he never wavered in his belief in the team’s potential. He was a master of man-management, understanding the psychological challenges that players faced, especially in the post-Ronaldo era. Zidane’s faith in his squad, even when results weren’t forthcoming, allowed Real Madrid to maintain their fighting spirit, which became a hallmark of his tenure.

His tactical flexibility was also evident in his use of players in unconventional roles. Fede Valverde’s transformation into a makeshift right-back, for instance, highlighted Zidane’s ability to adapt to the demands of the season. Similarly, the development of young players like Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo Goes, and Eder Militao showcased Zidane’s commitment to nurturing talent and preparing the next generation of Real Madrid stars.

The Final Chapter: Zidane’s Departure

Zidane’s decision to step down after a season without silverware is a poignant moment in Real Madrid’s history. His departure marks the end of an era defined by success, resilience, and tactical innovation. While his tenure may not have ended with the trophies that many had hoped for, Zidane leaves behind a squad that knows how to fight, adapt, and perform under pressure.

Real Madrid’s squad, under Zidane’s guidance, has evolved into a team that can weather any storm. Players who were once considered liabilities have now become cornerstones of the team. Zidane’s ability to extract the best from his players, even in the most challenging circumstances, will be remembered as one of his greatest achievements.

As Real Madrid moves forward, they will undoubtedly look back with gratitude at Zidane’s time in charge. His leadership, tactical acumen, and unwavering belief in his players have left an indelible mark on the club. Zidane’s legacy will endure, not just in the titles he won, but in the fighting spirit and all-round qualities he instilled in the team.

For Real Madrid, Zinedine Zidane will always be more than just a coach; he will be a symbol of resilience, innovation, and excellence. His legend, built on the foundations of leadership and tactical brilliance, will continue to resonate within the club for years to come.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Real Madrid’s 2020-21 Campaign: A Season of Resilience, Unyielding Effort, and Tactical Mastery

 As the final minutes ticked away at Alfredo Di Stefano, Real Madrid found themselves trailing 0-1 against Villarreal in a match that held monumental significance. A must-win for Los Blancos, the clock was running fast, and with only three minutes remaining, Karim Benzema stepped up to deliver a moment of hope with a clinical finish from the edge of the box. The goal levelled the score, and in stoppage time, Luka Modric unleashed a brilliant strike to give Real Madrid a vital lead. The victory, however, was bittersweet, as Atletico Madrid triumphed over Real Valladolid, sealing the La Liga title and leaving Real Madrid to reflect on what might have been.

The 2020-21 season marked Real Madrid’s 117th year in existence and their 90th consecutive season in the top flight of Spanish football. Despite competing across multiple fronts—the Copa del Rey, Supercopa de Espana, and the UEFA Champions League—the season ultimately ended in disappointment. Real Madrid’s early exit from the Copa del Rey at the hands of Alcoyano, a Champions League semifinal loss to Chelsea, and their failure to clinch the La Liga title, all added to the frustration of a season without silverware.

It was the first time in 11 years that Real Madrid finished a season without a trophy, a stark contrast to their historical dominance. The last time this occurred was in 2010-11, when they were eliminated by Alcorcon in the Copa del Rey and fell to Lyon in the Champions League Round of 16. For a club like Real Madrid, where winning trophies is part of its DNA, a season without titles is a blow to the collective ego of its fans and supporters.

The Cost of Missed Opportunities

While Real Madrid's season may be remembered for its lack of trophies, it would be remiss not to acknowledge the significant moments that contributed to their downfall. The loss of points to lower-ranked teams proved costly, and the defeats against Cadiz (1-0), Valencia (4-1), Deportivo Alaves (2-1), and the draw against Elche (2-2) in the final match of the season were particularly painful. These results, especially when combined with the 0-0 draw against Getafe in the crucial stages of the title race, haunted Real Madrid’s chances.

Injuries and the impact of COVID-19 further compounded the difficulties faced by Zinedine Zidane, who saw key players sidelined throughout the campaign. The team’s struggles with depth were apparent, and Zidane was forced to make do with limited options in several matches. Yet, despite these setbacks, Zidane and his squad fought until the very end, maintaining a sense of unity and determination that was evident in their performances.

Resilience Amidst Adversity

While the trophy cabinet may remain empty, Real Madrid’s season was far from devoid of merit. The character and resilience displayed by the team throughout the campaign cannot be overlooked. Despite suffering 62 injury setbacks, Real Madrid’s refusal to give up was a testament to their fighting spirit. Time and again, when the odds were stacked against them, they stood tall, focused on their target, and continued to battle.

The development of key players such as Eder Militao, who filled the massive shoes of Sergio Ramos in central defense, was one of the bright spots of the season. Lucas Vazquez emerged as a versatile and reliable performer, while Nacho Fernandez proved his worth under pressure. Fede Valverde’s adaptability, particularly in playing as a right-back, showcased his all-around brilliance, and the emergence of younger talents like Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo Goes, and Marco Asensio offered hope for the future.

Individual Performances: A Testament to Excellence

While Real Madrid’s collective efforts were commendable, individual performances stood out as well. Casemiro, who made 46 appearances across all competitions, was a central figure in the team’s midfield. His 13 goal involvements (seven goals, six assists) were a career-best, and his defensive contributions—151 tackles and interceptions—were crucial in shielding the defence. With a tackle success rate of 40% and 62 interceptions in La Liga, Casemiro was a key player in Real Madrid’s midfield, providing stability and balance.

Luka Modric, ever the maestro, continued to defy age with an outstanding season. With 48 appearances, including 80% of the team’s La Liga minutes, Modric’s passing accuracy (86.9%) and his ability to make progressive passes (208) underscored his importance. His seven goal-creating actions in La Liga further demonstrated his influence in the attacking phase.

Toni Kroos, perhaps the most consistent midfielder for Real Madrid this season, was involved in 15 goals (three goals, 12 assists) and played a pivotal role in orchestrating the team’s attacks. With a pass completion rate of nearly 90% in La Liga, Kroos’ ability to pick out teammates in dangerous positions was instrumental to Real Madrid’s play.

In goal, Thibaut Courtois proved his worth with 22 clean sheets across all competitions. His save success rate of 81.1% in La Liga, along with 17 clean sheets in the league, highlighted his importance to the team. Courtois’ consistency between the posts was a rare bright spot in a season marked by defensive struggles and injuries.

Upfront, Karim Benzema was the undoubted hero. The French striker finished as Real Madrid’s top scorer with 23 goals in all competitions, contributing significantly in both La Liga and the Champions League. Benzema’s ability to lead the line, particularly in the absence of other attacking options, was crucial to Real Madrid’s ability to stay competitive. His xG of 22.8 and xA of 8.1 demonstrated his all-around contribution to the team’s offensive play.

Zidane’s Tactical Mastery

Zinedine Zidane’s tactical acumen was put to the test throughout the season, and despite the challenges, he remained a steadying influence. His ability to adapt to the team’s changing circumstances, whether due to injuries or lack of depth, was a testament to his managerial expertise. Zidane’s leadership ensured that the squad remained united, even when the prospect of silverware seemed distant.

The Frenchman’s ability to maintain harmony within the squad, while also ensuring that key players like Modric, Kroos, and Benzema continued to perform at a high level, was a significant achievement. Zidane’s tactical flexibility, even in the face of adversity, kept Real Madrid competitive until the very last match of the season.

Conclusion: A Season of Unfulfilled Potential

While the 2020-21 season ended without trophies, it was far from a failure for Real Madrid. The team’s resilience, the development of young talents, and the individual brilliance of players like Casemiro, Modric, Kroos, and Benzema ensured that the campaign was not devoid of merit. Zidane’s tactical brilliance and leadership in the face of adversity further solidified his status as one of the best managers in the world.

Real Madrid’s season may be remembered as one of missed opportunities, but it also served as a reminder of the club’s enduring spirit and ability to fight until the end. As they look to the future, Real Madrid can take pride in the character they exhibited this season and remain hopeful that, with the right reinforcements, they will return to the summit of Spanish and European football in the seasons to come.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar