Three Observations from the First Few Days of the Club World Cup
Inter Miami's formation troubles, the sweltering heat in LA, Bayern's domination, plus an injury update on Yannick Bright and Jordi Alba.
photo credit: Inter Miami CF
We’re only a few days into the Club World Cup, but there’s already plenty to talk about.
Despite initial apprehension, the first couple of matches were pleasant surprises, with teams looking competitive and the crowds looking full, even though there was a ton of talk about the opposite.
However, though it’s still early days in the tournament for MLS clubs, it’s no secret that most of the American sides aren’t built to go toe-to-toe with Europe’s elite.
Financially and structurally, the gap is real. Still, despite that reality, the tournament has been, dare I say, fun to watch so far?
Inter Miami’s 0-0 draw to Al Ahly didn’t light up the scoreboard, but the team showed they were up for the occasion, and the atmosphere at Hard Rock Stadium felt big as well.
I suppose that’s all you can ask for at this stage.
Inter Miami’s Formation Once Again Leaves More to Be Desired
photo credit: Inter Miami CF
It’s been a recurring talking point for Miami this season, and no game exemplified the limitations of the 4-4-2 more than the Heron’s draw vs. Al Ahly.
With most top sides playing with at least three central midfielders (prioritizing numerical superiority in the center), it’s difficult for Miami to match up.
Lining up with just two central midfielders in a 4-4-2 often sees Miami outnumbered in the engine room, especially against sides that press aggressively.
That usually means more ground for either Yannick Bright, Federico Redondo, or Sergio Busquets to cover defensively, and less ability to link play offensively when caught out of position. This inevitably leads to more pressure on the backline when the midfield gets bypassed:
Against Al Ahly, they got away with it thanks to moments of sustained pressure late in the game and the individual quality of Lionel Messi. But, with Porto and Palmeiras lurking in the background, the setup will get exposed fast.
The Weather is Already a Talking Point
photo credit: Paris Saint Germain
Watching PSG take on Atletico Madrid at the Rose Bowl yesterday looked exhausting.
Not because of the football, but because of the heat that seemingly rose straight from the seventh circle of hell (and this is coming from a native Floridian).
Players looked gassed by the 60th-minute mark, and I can’t help but think about next year’s World Cup.
It’s hard not to wonder how the European-based player will handle the North American summer heat, especially with a handful of matches that will be played in Florida, Texas, Mexico, and California.
Bayern’s 10-0 Win Over Auckland Was… a Lot
We all knew that Bayern Munich was going to handle their business with stereotypical German efficiency, but 10-0 was…wild.
It’s worth noting that most of Auckland City FC’s players truly do it for the love of the game, and so this result was likely something we could all see coming.
News and notes: This morning at Inter Miami training, there were some updates on Jordi Alba and Yannick Bright.
Alba was back with the full team, which is great news as Miami heads into their next CWC match vs. Porto. On the other hand, Bright is still making his way back from a hamstring injury he suffered a few weeks ago.
Thoughts on the tournament so far? Let me know in the comments.
Busi Redondo and cover ground doesn't math to good. Fine second half performance by team thank frog Ustari found top form again