In the latest El Clásico held on March 6, 2025, Barcelona secured a commanding 5-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Copa de la Reina.
Barcelona’s Formation and Tactics:
- 4-3-3 Formation: Barcelona deployed a 4-3-3 setup, emphasizing width and ball control.
- High Pressing: They implemented an aggressive high press, disrupting Real Madrid’s build-up play and regaining possession quickly.
- Midfield Dominance: The trio of Aitana Bonmatí, Patri Guijarro, and Alexia Putellas controlled the midfield, dictating the tempo and creating scoring opportunities.
- Clinical Finishing: Barcelona’s forwards exploited spaces left by Madrid’s defensive lapses, converting chances efficiently.
Real Madrid’s Formation and Tactical Issues:
- 4-2-3-1 Formation: Real Madrid lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation but struggled with defensive cohesion.
- Ineffective Pressing: Their press lacked coordination, allowing Barcelona’s defenders time to distribute the ball, bypassing the press.
- Midfield Vulnerabilities: The absence of key midfielders due to injury left gaps, which Barcelona exploited to dominate possession. elpais.com
- Defensive Frailties: Full-backs were often caught out of position, leading to numerical disadvantages and exposing the defense.
Impact on the Match Outcome:
- Control and Possession: Barcelona’s tactical approach allowed them to dictate play, maintaining possession and controlling the game’s tempo.
- Exploiting Weaknesses: They capitalized on Madrid’s defensive disorganization, creating and converting multiple scoring opportunities.
- Psychological Advantage: The early goals demoralized Madrid, affecting their performance and leading to further mistakes.