Direct build-up and a 6-3-1 low block: How FC Arouca are on cusp of an unlikely qualification for the UECL – scout report

FC Arouca in Portugal’s top-flight are a refreshing case of a team being able to punch above its weight class in a sport which is increasingly becoming financially disparate. 

According to Capology.com, the Arouquenses currently boast the third-lowest payroll in Liga Portugal, with a stadium capacity of merely 5,000 on a good day. Only Gil Vicente and Vizela have a lower payroll in the Primeira Liga.

Yet, Gil Vicente are battling against relegation down the bottom of the table and Vizela are eighth. Meanwhile, Arouca are sitting pretty in fifth place, six points ahead of Famalicão in sixth. Should they remain in this position, Armando Evangelista will have guided the Portuguese minnows back to European football. 

Arouca last achieved this feat at the end of the 2015/16 season under Lito Vidigal, finishing fifth and qualifying for the UEFA Europa League. Unfortunately, the Porto-based club fell in the playoff round to Greek giants Olympiacos but even getting thus far was an impressive achievement. But now, Arouca are on course to match that feat.

What’s more intriguing is their record at both ends of the field. Arouca have scored 33 and conceded 33 goals in 29 matches in the Primeira Liga. Let’s look at why.

This tactical analysis piece will be a scout report dissecting the most intriguing elements of Arouca’s tactics this season under Evangelista in and out of possession. 

Statistical overview 

Evangelista has preferred to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation throughout the course of the season. This structure suits the players at his disposal along with the 4-3-3.

Arouca have a strong midfield presence of former Barcelona academy graduate Oriol Busquets, Argentine playmaker Alan Ruiz and the experienced David Simão while Morlaye Sylla and Antony are excellent wide players for the Arouquenses. Hence, using three central midfielders and two wingers makes sense, regardless of whether the shape is a 4-2-3-1 or a 4-3-3. 

The 49-year-old wants his team to defend in a 4-4-2 mid-block for the most part too and so the 4-2-3-1 facilitates this when the number ‘10’ steps up to join the first line of pressure alongside the centre-forward.

However, formations are expendable when it comes to Arouca. The Portuguese minnows play like chameleons and can alternate shapes depending on the game state. Principles have been more important to Arouca’s success this season and so it is Evangelista’s principles which shall be focused on the most.