Barca’s thrilling 5-4 win over Benfica was no doubt electrifying. However the electrifying contest exposed a few shaky aspects of the Barcelona defense. Now, a rematch looms over Flick’s head, and will the German’s tactical choices learn from past mistakes? The attacking flair is amazing but where’s the defensive brilliance? Let’s break down this discussion.
Hansi Flick’s High-Risk, High-Reward Approach
Flick has made significant developments on the Catalan side. He has imposed a tornado of attacking football and has been reckless. No matter the time, Flick’s team does not seem to tire and presses relentlessly. But it comes with an incredibly high line, which is expected to mop up all dispossessions. So, is this attacking flair worth it?
Let’s be honest. This Barca team is not like the 2020 Bayern run by Flick. It has shown a knack for struggling against counter-attacking football. The last game against Atletico is a prominent example, where Kounde’s small mistake cost Barca heavily on the counter. So, my take? Flick’s gamble might be a good fit in La Liga, but margins are tighter in UCL. Benfica’s Pavilidis and Di Maria do not require second chances; they’ll feast on defensive blunders.
Pedri’s Masterclass & Flick’s Substitution Issue: Did Barcelona Lose Control?
Pedri has been in jaw-dropping form recently, and last game against Atletico was another magical night for the number 8. And then Flick subbed him and replaced him with Gavi and Fermin. The result? The midfield collapsed, and Simone’s Atletico pounced.
So, here’s the truth: Flick must not let Pedri’s displays go to waste. His performances of dictating tempo, possession recycling, and picking apart defenses have been truly outstanding. Benfica’s midfield duo of Kokcu and Florentino Luis will look to exploit the voids left by Pedri’s absence. Therefore, Hansi Flick’s rotation policy might work against Getafe, but not in these KO games. If such blunders are repeated, Barca’s UCL dreams will be over faster than you can say remontada.
Benfica’s Low Block and Counter-Attacking Threat?
Benfica would also have learned a thing or two after the 5-4 thriller at their home. The Portuguese team will look to park the bus, clog the center, and wait for the chance to counter attack. Therefore, Barca’s highline is a big red flag. The Eagles thrashed Atletico 4-0 back in October, and that will surely be the plan. My worry is Flick’s refusal to bow down. If he sticks to his high line, the Barca center-backs will undoubtedly spend the night sprinting backward repeatedly.
A good solution might be to deploy Eric Garcia as a hybrid CB/DM. He could be given a role to shield the backline and also help move the ball forward. I know Frenkie could do this, too, but Frenkie is not the quickest at getting back, and if Barca trails, an early exit could ruin Barca’s promising season.
Flick’s Barcelona is entertaining and a box-office hit but struggles defensively. If Flick sorts out this issue, the game against Benfica might be a lot simpler than it looks like. Let’s hope Barca does not choke as the defining moments have started.