Amanda Cromwell’s UCLA Bruins – tactical analysis

The UCLA Bruins are one of the strongest sides in NCAA women’s soccer. Until a recent wobble where they drew with USC and lost 2-1 to Oregon State in extra-time, they won their first 8 games in 2021. Since the draw and loss they have bounced back with wins over Washington State and Washington.

This tactical analysis looks to give some insight into the tactics used by UCLA Head Coach Amanda Cromwell, whilst giving a brief analysis of some key aspects of their game model and an overview of some key players worth keeping an eye on.

Formation and players

UCLA are tied to a 4-3-3 /4-5-1 system, which can be viewed as either depending on the width and height of their wide attackers, but regardless of how you view it, Cromwell likes a back four with three central-midfielders. Generally speaking she looks to utilise a single pivot, most often using the excellent Senior midfielder Marley Canales in this position.

Generally Cromwell opts for Olivia Athens and Danielle Sheehan in front of Canales when forming this midfield three.

Behind this midfield three, UCLA are blessed with defensive talent. Their most commonly used back four has involved Michaela Rosenbaum at right-back, England U21  and Arsenal academy product, Lucy Parker and Karina Rodriguez at centre-back with Jacey Pederson at left-back. Brianne Riley has also been a regular either starting at centre-back or right-back. Along with goalkeeper Lauren Brzykcy this defence has kept seven clean sheets in their first 12 games this season  an incredibly impressive feat.

Further ahead, on either wing, they predominantly use Reilyn Turner on the right and Kaila Novak, who are both in their freshman year, although another freshman Megan Edelman has also featured relatively regularly on both sides. Up front, Mia Fishel is most commonly used.

Pressing shape

Out of possession, UCLA look to take up a 4-1-4-1 shape, with the single pivot bridging the gap between the defence and midfield. Depending on how aggressive they want to be with the press, they will at times push a midfielder up to join the forward to give a front two, and this move is reciprocated by the pivot who pushes forward themselves, to give UCLA a standard 4-4-2 shape.