The first international break of the new season came to an end last Tuesday with club football returning to action only a couple of days later. On Friday night, Derby County welcomed Neil Warnock’s Cardiff City at the Pride Park Stadium.
After a tremendous last season under Frank Lampard, the 2019/20 EFL Championship campaign has been far from perfect for the Derbyshire club so far. Coming into this game, ‘The Rams’ were sitting in the 19th position having won only a single game so far this season. The start to the new campaign for their opponents has been far from ideal as well, with Cardiff being placed 13th in the table after accumulating eight points in the first six matches.
Philip Cocu’s intention to play possession-based football was evident in this game, however, not to the extent that could have been expected. Despite Derby having 64% of possession and performing a total of 13 attempts at goal, there was not a notion of dominance coming from the home side. Hardly any of those chances could be considered clear cut opportunities.
On the other side, Warnock’s tactics were as expected when playing against a team that has a majority of possession. Cardiff were a lot more direct and tried to hit the home team on the counterattack using their pacey wingers. The visitors managed only 36% of ball possession but had 13 shots at goal as well.
This tactical analysis will take a closer look at both teams’ game strategies and explain the key moments that lead to a one-all draw.
To read the full tactical analysis of this match- click here
Artwork by @chapulana
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