Feature, Symbolbild, der Spielball auf dem Sockel mit Bundesliga Logo. Deutschland, Stuttgart, 05.03.2022, Fussball, Bundesliga: VfB Stuttgart vs Borussia Moenchengladbach, Saison 2021/2022, 25. Spieltag, Mercedes-Benz Arena Foto: A2 Bildagentur/Peter Hartenfelser DFL/DFB REGULATIONS PROHIBIT ANY USE OF PHOTOGRAPHS AS IMAGE SEQUENCES AND/OR QUASI-VIDEO. *** Feature, symbol image, the match ball on the base with Bundesliga logo Germany, Stuttgart, 05 03 2022, football, Bundesliga VfB Stuttgart vs Borussia Moenchengladbach, season 2021 2022, 25 match day, Mercedes Benz Arena Foto A2 Bildagentur Peter Hartenfelser DFL DFB REGULATIONS PROHIBIT ANY USE OF PHOTOGRAPHS AS IMAGE SEQUENCES AND OR QUASI VIDEO

The Bundesliga game between Mainz and Wolfsburg was not an offensive spectacle but provided some tactical insights concerning the current strengths and weaknesses of each side. Whereas Mainz struggled in the beginning of the season with the second-youngest team of the league, Wolfsburg have been successful und unbeaten under their new head coach Oliver Glasner.

Our tactical analysis reveals some of Wolfsburg’s defensive tactics and deals with the issues of Mainz’s attacking approach. Moreover, we take a closer look at the impressive pressing statistics of Mainz and explain why the might get misunderstood.

Lineups and formations

Mainz coach Sandro Schwarz stuck to his preferred 4-3-1-2 formation. During the attacking phase, the full-backs were supposed to attack down the flanks and put in crosses while the striking duo constantly threatened the space behind the opposition backline.

Bundesliga 2019/20: Mainz vs Wolfsburg - tactical analysis tactics
Lineups of Mainz and Wolfsburg [Credit: Wyscout]
Wolfsburg coach Glasner lined his side up in a 3-4-3. While the flanks were occupied by the wing-backs Jérôme Roussillon and William, Josip Brekalo and Admir Mehmedi positioned themselves within the half-spaces behind striker Wout Weghorst. The double-pivot in midfield consisting of Maximilian Arnold and Josuha Guilavogui covered the central areas in front of the backline during the defensive phase. And during the press, the ball near wing-back pushed slightly higher while the other one joined the central defenders to form a situational back four.

If you want to read the full tactical breakdown of this game, head over to totalfootballanalysis.com or click HERE



Artwork by @chapulana

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