It was very clear within a couple of minutes after their subs that they had changed their tactics and style of play so why did we not make any adjustments to players, formation or tactics to counteract it?
Did you see the bench???
Granted, we could have gone more defensive, but pragmatism is Pep’s last refuge.
Khus should have played RB with Dias as the LCB, but Pep thought he could come here and play 2 at the back with a DM dropping in to allow the full backs to get wide and long and the “wingers” tucking in.
At HT, while unconvincing, we were ahead, and it might have led to a more pragmatic approach in the second half, by using an extra defender and placing Stones in alongside Rodri for some cover. Alas…
Cue their QUAD change around the 60 minute mark, and there was looking like there was only going to be one winner and one wondered if Khus was going to be able to stay on the field…more because of a desperate lunging second yellow than an injury!
Just look at their winner and ask yourself if that looks like a team who has ANY CLUE how to defend a draw, let alone a lead?!
The bench had an entire second back four, and we used 2 of them, and STILL couldn’t do a damned thing to blunt their no name subs!!!
EXACT SAME PERFORMANCE AS LAST SEASON!
Can Pep not learn?
Can the players not see and feel it?
What does the long bench full of coaches actually do?
Where can I pick up that 7 figure job????