Tackling the Tiki Taka

DONETSK, UKRAINE – JUNE 27: Fernando Torres of Spain (C) lines up with the substitutes during the national anthems during the UEFA EURO 2012 semi final match between Portugal and Spain at Donbass Arena on June 27, 2012 in Donetsk, Ukraine.

Every successful idea has one mind behind it and a million after it. Unsurprisingly, as Spain reach the final of yet another major competition, their style of football known as the tiki taka has been growing in popularity with each Spanish win. Patient in possession, pressurising when not, Spain – and as a result Barcelona – have over the years developed, and almost perfected the style of football that now defines Spanish football. With a world-class midfield boasting of Xavi, Iniesta , Fabregas, Xabi Alonso and David Silva – playmakers who are capable of cutting open opposition defences with pin-point passes – Spain have looked good value for their World and European Champions tag as they look to make history by becoming the first team to win two consecutive European Championships. Unbeaten so far at Euro 2012, a Spanish victory in the finals is not only very much possible, it is likely.

However, it is incorrect to assume that Spain is totally a class above every other team. So, how can any team deal with the consistent attacks that Spain deliver, pouring players into the penalty area? Chelsea’s win over Barcelona in the Champions League seemed to provide one answer. Putting ten bodies behind the ball and going only on the counter attack, besides being boring, is not going to guarantee victory. In addition, Chelsea – this is not to deny the brilliant defensive display put in – also had a share of luck in their win over Barcelona. The goalpost and injuries to key players played their part in Chelsea’s surprise victory. So much about what not to do.

As for what to do, the first semifinal of this Euro has the answer. Portugal, definitely the underdogs going into the game, were punching above their weight. Not only did they not concede for 120 minutes of play, they had their moments and looking back at the game, a Portugal win would also have been a fair result. Unlike Chelsea who were on the back foot for the most part of their game against Barcelona, Portugal had a fair share of possession – which against Spain, is an achievement in itself – and looked threatening going forward.

This match would be a good demonstration for other teams on how to contain Spain and restrict the passing game. Here is how they managed it:

Pressing the possessor:

The Spanish player in possession was well contained by Portuguese defenders who applied continuous pressure, not allowing the player any room to pick out passes. The pressure made it difficult for Spain to penetrate the Portuguese defense and not having the time to set up long passes to the players up front, they had to push it away wherever they could or risk losing possession

Portugal – Pressing for victory

Spain well marked:

The Portuguese defense, despite the yellow cards awarded, were up to their task. They stuck to their guns and there was a sense of desperation about them not to let Spain get their passing game going and successful they were.

Marking the marksmen

The strategy, well executed, added to their incredible work rate, kept them in the contest right till the very end. 90 minutes of regulation time and 30 minutes of extra time were not enough for defending champions and tournament favourites Spain to find the back of Rui Patricio’s net. And yet, it wasn’t to be Portugal (and Cristiano Ronaldo)’s year. Bruno Alves’ shot hit the bar and came out while Fabregas’ spot kick went in off the post. Fine margins there, but that is what football is all about.