Ricardo Zielinski 2022: How Estudiantes became one of the best teams in South America – tactical analysis

The start of the Libertadores showcased what many in Argentina had already begun to see; Estudiantes have been one of the best teams in South America. Nearly halfway into the 2022 season, Ricardo Zielinski’s team have only lost two matches and currently sit top of both their Libertadores and Copa de la Liga groups. After the fourth matchday of the Libertadores, Estudiantes are the only team to have qualified for the next round along with Palmeiras.

Without many stars and nowhere near the quality of the likes of River Plate, Flamengo, and Palmeiras, Estudiantes have still been able to perform extremely well. Zielinski’s rather unique tactics have seen them exceed expectations and become one of the leading teams in South America. This tactical analysis examines the tactics used by Ricardo Zielinski throughout different phases of the game. In addition, we look at not only why they have been successful, but also how they look ahead of bigger matches and challenges.

Formations

Despite the very tough South American schedule, Zielinski has been rather consistent with his lineups. Although certain pieces rotate, there are a core group of players who have constantly featured. In April’s 30 days, Estudiantes played a total of nine matches. That averages out to nearly a match every three days. This exhausting schedule automatically begs the question: how will they arrive in the latter stages of the Libertadores fitness-wise?

A few core pieces have constantly featured for Estudiantes lately. A backline of Godoy, Rogel, Noguera, and Mas has been very consistent, especially due to the fullbacks’ attacking characteristics. Further up, Zuqui and Rodríguez have been the backbone of the midfield. Finally, 36-year-old Boselli has constantly featured despite his old age.

As far as formations, a 4-4-2 has been the go-to structure. Within matches and even phases of the game, Zielinski has also varied with a back three. In addition, the structure of the more advanced players will change based on the characteristics of the player, although a core organisation is maintained.

Build up

Ricardo Zielinski’s side has rather unique tactics. They only average 46.67% of possession and a low 313.04 passes per 90. Additionally, they average 2.74 passes per possession and have the lowest passing rate in the Copa de la Liga with 11.1 passes per minute of possession. Finally, 17.26% of their passes are long passes, a relatively high number. Despite these metrics, Estudiantes have the highest xG per shot in the Copa de la Liga with 0.135. They are still able to create extremely valuable chances without a very controlled approach to possession. Tactically, Zielinski’s side also maintains a very good organisation as we will see throughout the multiple phases of possession.

Despite setting up in a 4-4-2, Estudiantes prefer to build with a single pivot. One of the midfielders will drop in while the other sits higher. Other players such as a false-nine or inside forwards will drop in to provide options. The centre-backs sit wide while the fullbacks push high and wide.