The Key Factor in the National Derby: Midfield High Press Determines Victory, and the Value of Substitutes Cannot Be Underestimated
High-pressure pressing: a battle of wits and strength
The star strategy is the main competitive strategy for Real Madrid and Barcelona. However, for Mbappe and Yamar to truly focus on attacking, they need the support of Valverde and Gavi. Obviously, the midfield competition will be the fundamental logic determining the outcome of the game, the underlying principle behind the glitz. Interestingly, both Real Madrid and Barcelona have amassed a wealth of talent in this area, and the outcome of the national derby hinges on the midfield battle.
After reviewing the semi-finals and recent matches, it becomes clear that Ancelotti and Flick have extremely high demands for high-pressure pressing. Therefore, when the national derby meets again, both sides are bound to engage in fierce competition in this area, with a confrontation that cannot be avoided. For these top football giants, what they seek is not an exceptionally high possession rate but rather the ability to capitalize on their opponents' mistakes. Consequently, the midfields of Real Madrid and Barcelona will undoubtedly face immense pressure, with any mistake being ruthlessly exploited by the opposition.
In the first leg, after Real Madrid encountered defensive errors, Casado's assists effectively exposed the fatal flaws in the "Galactic Battleship." In the second leg, they must strive to avoid this issue. However, Real Madrid already lacks reliable defenders, with their main players injured. Can the young players solve the problem?
In the first leg of the national derby, the record of Barcelona's central attack shows that they attach much higher importance to the game here than anywhere else.
Substitute Aces: An Issue That Cannot Be Overlooked
Considering Real Madrid's crushing defeat in the first leg and the attention given to the second leg, as well as the issue of the team's framework returning to full strength, it is estimated that neither Real Madrid nor Barcelona will easily gain a decisive advantage over the other. This makes the arrangement of substitutes particularly crucial, which is not only a testament to Ancelotti and Flick's coaching abilities but also an opportunity for the substitutes to prove themselves, seeing who is tougher and more confident.
For Real Madrid, the substitute value of Diaz and Modric cannot be overlooked, along with Juler. Their midfield reserves, with the strength of both veterans and newcomers, can provide significant assistance to Ancelotti. The impact they make when coming off the bench during the game is excellent. Whether in previous league matches or the semi-finals, victories were achieved through their efforts; thus, they are crucial in this match against Barcelona.
For Barcelona, Olmo fills this gap. After resolving registration issues, he has the chance to play in the final, which is of great importance to both himself and Barcelona. Olmo is known for his super-substitute role, a characteristic he has demonstrated in both the European Cup and throughout the season with Barcelona. Against Real Madrid, Flick might rely on him to deliver the decisive blow.
Comparatively speaking, this Real Madrid versus Barcelona "Western Super Cup Final" can be considered a luxurious version of the national derby, with both teams having a complete lineup and their main players mostly available. This presents a good opportunity for them. Considering Real Madrid's crushing defeat in the first leg, Ancelotti will undoubtedly spare no effort to "wash away the shame" and teach Flick a lesson; while Barcelona faces a "bad luck" situation, the Super Cup is also a good opportunity for them to "reverse" their fortune. If they can defeat their old rivals again, their confidence will surely return quickly. Therefore, no one will underestimate this contest. Whether Real Madrid emerges victorious or Barcelona claims the title, the answer is about to be revealed.