Spanish Superior: Villar and Diaz dazzle in Spain’s dominant display

This week, the UEFA under 21 European Championships got underway, with much excitement building around several teams as fans want to see wonderkids showcase their talent and potential. While there were a couple of surprise results in matchday 1 of the group stage phase, one of the favourites to win the whole thing, Spain, got off to a flyer, picking up a 3-0 win against Slovenia. With a good number of their squad already plying their trade at La Liga, this Spanish side clearly possesses a depth of talent that they will look to transfer into the senior side in the coming years. This tactical analysis will briefly look at how Spain set up – the tactics they deployed to put on such a dominant display. We will also analyse the top two players from this fixture, with a scope on their role in the team – these players will be Brahim Diaz and Gonzalo Villar

Spain’s line-up & system

Spain deployed a 4-2-3-1 formation, a very popular shape that you are likely to see throughout this competition. Braga striker Abel Ruiz led the line for the eventual match-winners, with wide midfield support coming from former Manchester City player Brahim Diaz, who is currently plying his trade with AC Milan in Serie A (on loan from Real Madrid), and Marc Cucurella of Getafe. Espanyol’s Javi Puado operated in the attacking midfield role, with defensive cover being provided by Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad) and Gonzalo Villar (Roma). From left to right, the back four consisted of Juan Miranda (Real Betis, on loan from Barcelona), Jorge Cuence (Almería, on loan from Villareal), Hugo Guillamón (Valencia), and Pipa (Huddersfield Town).

Tactically, Spain’s approach did not surprise many. On the ball, they looked to dominate the game, dictate the tempo, and pin Slovenia back deep into their own half. The Spaniards registered 70% possession during this match, with 21 attempts on goal – 11 on target.