Comeback?
“Football, it’s a funny old game”
The comeback. We've seen it numerous times through the years. Liverpool battling back from 3-0 down in the 2005 Champions League final to turn-over AC Milan on penalties. Newcastle clawing back a four-goal deficit to draw with Arsenal on a Cheick Tiote (RIP) thunderbolt in the 87th minute. As recently as last year we saw Barcelona overcome a five goal aggregate deficit to embarrass Paris Saint Germain and win the tie 6-5.
Today we will see Manchester City try and fight back from three goals down in the Champions League to overcome the mighty Reds of Liverpool. So what will it take? How does a manager tactically approach this kind of game where the odds are stacked against his squad? Here are the five keys that Manchester City must follow to successfully overcome the mountainous challenge in front of them:
Start with momentum. Manchester City must push forward in swathes of sky-blue today. This will apply pressure on Liverpool, enhance psychological morale for City and most importantly, create a confidence in the fans that the challenge is surmountable.
Be patient. Although City might have pressure, a goal may not come quickly. This will test the resolve of the City players yet they must stay composed and continue to apply their original game-plan.
Maintain defensive responsibility. As important as it is for City to score, they must not concede early or it pretty much puts the tie out of reach. If Liverpool score, City need four. They are capable of scoring four however, the deflation of conceding will take 15 minutes out of the match as the players and the fans will need to regroup and start again. Time is of the essence here.
Listen to Pep. Arguably the greatest manager of all-time will be sitting in the sky-blue dugout and patrolling the technical area. The City players must abide to his orders as only then will they be successful.
Keep the Faith. Things most likely will not go exactly to plan today but City must keep the faith. They have the technical ability to win this match at a romp however, if they lose their focus through adversity, the advantage goes to Liverpool.
I personally can't wait for this match as I feel it will be a barnstormer. What makes it even more intriguing is that Liverpool's back-line is suspect and their goalkeeping is less than secure therefore I think their best form of defense may be attack. All things combined, we may be in for another classic.
Enjoy!
