National team coach Vladimir Petkovic is finalizing his strategy for the crucial match against Congo this Tuesday. The encounter is anticipated to be a highly tactical affair, considering Congo’s midfield strength and their ambition to dictate the game’s tempo from the outset.
Zerrouki’s Captaincy: A Sign of Confidence
The decision to award Ramiz Zerrouki the captain’s armband in the Guinea game wasn’t arbitrary. It was a clear message from Petkovic, highlighting his profound trust in the Feyenoord player. The coach views Zerrouki as a stabilizing force and a leader on the pitch, capable of guiding his teammates and enforcing tactical discipline in a critical area.
Midfield Battle: Key to Victory
Petkovic recognizes that Congo’s strength lies in their midfield, characterized by physical presence and intense pressing. Therefore, he aims to fortify this area with players who combine tackling ability and the capacity to transition the ball smoothly. This explains the inclination to deploy a robust midfield trio from the start.
Defensive Roles to Support Full-Backs
The coach’s new plan involves a central midfielder capable of covering the spaces behind the full-backs during attacking forays, preventing swift counter-attacks, a specialty of the Congolese team. Zerrouki is considered the most suitable option for this role, thanks to his excellent positioning and sharp reading of the game.
Tactical Surprise in the Lineup
Current indications suggest that Petkovic is leaning towards fielding Bennacer, Zerrouki, and Nice midfielder Boudaoui together in the starting eleven, reinforcing the depth and pressure in the midfield. This tactical choice could disrupt coach De Sables’ plans and deny Congo their usual control.
Changes in the Front Line
This approach will likely lead to sacrificing striker Baghdad Bounedjah, relying instead on a mobile attacking duo of Amoura and Mahrez. This option offers the Greens greater speed in transitions and a better ability to exploit spaces behind the opponent’s defense.
Petkovic is sending clear signals that the Congo match will not be played in the traditional style. The focus on the midfield battle and adjustments upfront indicates a proactive approach, aiming to surprise the opponent and secure a vital victory. The Congolese coach’s recent comments appear to have spurred Petkovic to implement this counter-strategy.
