In a frustrating match against Coventry, Ben, a season ticket holder for Norwich City and author of the NCFC Analysis social media account, analyzed the tactical strengths and weaknesses of the game. The possession and passing statistics showed that Coventry had the edge, with 57% possession and 532 passes compared to Norwich’s 43% possession and 407 passes. Coventry also had more shots and a higher expected goals (xG) rating.
The base formations for both teams were crucial to understanding their tactics. Norwich started with a 4-2-4 shape in their build-up phases, with two strikers dropping deep and stretching the Coventry back line. Coventry, on the other hand, played a 3-5-2 formation with one of their wing-backs often advancing beyond the midfield.
Coventry employed a passive first line of press, allowing Norwich’s goalkeeper to be the only free player. Their strategy was to block passing lanes and force Norwich to one side when a striker pressed. However, there were moments when Norwich’s center-backs bypassed the initial press, leaving an opportunity for a 2v1 situation.
Norwich’s settled play diamond and rotation of wingers and full-backs created numerical advantages behind Coventry’s first line of pressure. However, Coventry’s midfield triangle created both numerical and positional superiority against Norwich’s midfield. In the second half, Coventry intensified their pressing and became more man-oriented, disrupting Norwich’s build-up play.
Despite Norwich’s low-block and passive press, Coventry dominated the game with 21 shots and a higher xG rating. Norwich’s late change to a 5-4-1 shape just before conceding the equalizer was seen as a negative move, especially for a team aiming for the play-offs. This defensive approach was surprising given that Norwich’s manager, David Wagner, often emphasizes being difficult to play against.
Overall, Ben’s analysis highlights the tactical decisions and strategies employed by both teams in the match and points out the weaknesses in Norwich’s approach. Fans can read more of Ben’s analysis on Norwich City games on his social media accounts.
