The first half of the second semi-final of the FA Cup ended with a 1-1 draw between Port and Shenhua. Journalist Chen Hua commented on Weibo that setting aside the refereeing standards, this match is indeed the most tactically sophisticated Shanghai derby of the season.
Chen Hua wrote: “Setting aside the refereeing standards, purely in terms of competitive level, the current 1-1 first half is the Shanghai derby with the highest tactical content in the 2024 season.”
“On Port’s side, the smaller lineup has greater mobility, although they have lost their aerial advantage, they can generally keep up defensively. On Shenhua’s side, they continue with their tough style, basically not passing through midfield when in possession, directly sending the ball to the two and a half foreign players at the front, relying on individual duels to exploit their local advantages.”
“It must be acknowledged that Shenhua’s tactical style is actually quite effective against Port. Muscat’s tactics ultimately involve high pressing, making it difficult for you to distribute the ball. However, I believe that since Shenhua does not go through midfield, the significance of high pressing is not great. It might be better to retreat when leading 1-0. Because, even if you press, they will still play long balls over midfield to find their forwards, breaking your high press. In that case, it might as well not press, conserving energy, and patiently defend on the counter after falling back.”
“Of course, after the 1-1 equalizer, the probability of a low block counterattack is much lower. In the second half, Shenhua has more options. If Port continues with their original approach without changes, it could be very dangerous.”
“Looking forward to the second half.”
Journalist: Setting Aside the Refereeing, This Match is the Most Tactically Sophisticated Shanghai Derby of the Season. Author：Sports UEFA.Please indicate the source when reproduced：https://www.sportsuefa.com/football-world/41964.html
