Toronto FC Vs FC Cincinnati: 3 things we learned – Attack shines
By Marko Babic
1. Toronto FC’s altered attack
Since switching to a 4-2-3-1, Toronto FC have generally concentrated their attacks on the left, utilizing Jacob Shaffelburg’s directness and willingness to cross to create scoring chances in the box and stretch defenses in order to open up the left-inside channel for playmaker Alejandro Pozuelo.
Greg Vanney modified his offensive strategy against FC Cincinnati. Toronto FC targeted the visitor’s left flank, with Alejandro Pozuelo drifting right to create overloads, Marky Delgado operating in the right-inside channel, and Richie Laryea and Nick DeLeon playing off of one another near the touchline.
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In doing so, Toronto FC achieved a four vs three numerical advantage when Cincinnati’s midfielders failed to track Pozuelo, and they were able to get the ball to Shaffelburg in one-on-ones in more space than he is used to when switching the play.
The Reds’ strategy worked wonderfully in the first half as the home side created plenty of chances, taking a 1-0 lead into the break without allowing a shot on goal. Unfortunately, Vanney’s men were unable to continue implementing their strategy in the second half insofar as Cincinnati’s man-oriented pressing scheme disrupted TFC’s build-up play.
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Nevertheless, the efficacy of Toronto FC’s adjustments in the attacking phase during the first half provides grounds for optimism in that their play was indicative of progression in their recently adopted 4-2-3-1 formation.