Comments on: From goal to goal in 17 seconds

By: Prabal Rakshit

Prabal Rakshit — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 02:49:41 +0000

To an extent JC’s comments on France make sense. They too play close to 4-2-3-1. With a central defence of Thuram and Gallas, preceded by the deadly midfield duo of Vieira and Makelele, it is not that easy to penetrate their defensive shield. Someone like Robben or Afellay might just be the answer to stretching the full backs Sagnol and Abidal.

Counter attacking surely allows you to stun the opposition and take advantage of open spaces. But after the first match, I do not think France would have missed this. So the tried and tested method of building possession with tremendous pace can still be the best way out.

Another thing, Benzema could not live up to his reputation, but his replacement the legendary Thierry Henry even on an off day can be a handful for our defence. I wonder why not many have referred to the fact that Ooijer and Mathijsen can be outrun by some focussed attacking, something which Toni sorely lacked.

By: Jan

Jan — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 02:04:35 +0000

It’s true that counter attacking is “easier” to outplay the defense but when France scores first, they won’t allow a lot of countering. Still, we need the skills – and we have them – to outplay them in the traditional way. A 1-2 combination, taking opponents on in a 1-to-1 situation and/or wide play with crosses into the box. We’ve been there, done that and should be able to do it again, no matter how hard it is.

By: richard

richard — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 01:02:12 +0000

I watch the long buildups–and while extended possession is a nice thing, it almost never results in a goal because the defenders are back and massed and it takes absolute brilliance to get through. In counterattacks you have space and the skilled players have room to operate in the open field–that’s why the Holland second goal sent a jolt of electricity through all of Europe. This is what everyone want to see and it’s good for the sport–not playing cautiously with your defense. I was happy to see that van Basten called Kuyt’s play “tremendous”–he was my man of the match. Let’s hope that every game that Holland gets the first goal!

By: sphinx

sphinx — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:32:43 +0000

turn around or counter-attack whatever you call: that the most effective way to socre. Dirk pointed out the fact that opportunity last only seconds during the opponents are out balanced and yet to regroup.
that’s the real moment to react by speed, skill, precision and ofcourse quick respond instinct. That’s the game of the day and all top teams are applying well.
orange has deliverd that and need a redainess defend that play at the times we loose opportuniy too.

By: Mario Rosado (Dutch admirer)

Mario Rosado (Dutch admirer) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 23:05:38 +0000

It’s a good analysis by Kuyt in my opinion. Those substitutions would be very good and we could attack from the middle but also have the option to have one on one situations with Robben or Afellay.

We have to take care of Ribery and Malouda they are two very good players and our left and right backs must be very focused. I hope Boulahrouz doesn’t play as right back ’cause he always finds it hard against these type of players.

By: Michel-Olivier

Michel-Olivier — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 21:45:44 +0000

why bring Robben, Van Persie or Afellay on the flanks to take on the defense?
we have to beat the french through the middle not the wings. if we can get a draw its a good result.