MLS is Back: Talking tournament tactics – Eastern Conference

Chicago Fire

Expected formation: Rafael Wicky deployed a 4-1-4-1 in both of the Chicago Fire’s league matches earlier this year. A slight wrinkle showed one of the full-backs pushing high in the attack, effectively creating a three-man backline. Look for the Fire to get the ball to striker Robert Beric with every chance they get.

Team style: Chicago’s team style is still relatively unclear. Wicky’s teams at FC Basel and the USMNT U17s lined up differently from his short time in Chicago so far. The Fire conceded the majority of possession to Seattle in their first game but were out-possessed by New England in their second. It might be wise to sit back and absorb pressure because of the lack of team chemistry due to significant roster turnover.

Potential success/failure: If Chicago stay defensively sound and get the ball to their main playmakers, they may stand a chance at advancing out of the group stage. The 4-1-4-1 allows for a lot of flexibility in attack while keeping things organized to shield against transitions. Their success hinges on how Wicky uses Beric and newly arrived DP midfielders Gaston Gimenez and Ignacio Aliseda. Chicago’s defense looked shaky in its first two games, which was expected given the massive overhaul of the roster, and even with months to learn the coach’s tactics, expect more shakiness in the back due to lack of legitimate game time. The Fire’s lack of defensive solidarity will most likely be their undoing.

FC Cincinnati

Expected formation: Although FC Cincinnati are on their fourth coach in a year in a half, expect a 4-3-3 shape from newly appointed Jaap Stam. Dutch General Manager Gerard Nijkamp, who joined Cincinnati part-way through 2019, brought in Dutch manager Ron Jans. Following Jans’ termination, Nijkamp brought in another Dutch manager in Stam. All coaches have used a 4-3-3 during that time.

Team style: This area is yet to be decided, but with such a heavy Dutch influence over the past year, expect a possession-oriented philosophy. Stam spent time as a coach in Ajax’s youth setup, including time under Frank de Boer with the first team. How well Cincinnati execute possession of the ball remains to be seen, although an improved midfield three should help in this aspect.

Potential success/failure: For all of Cincinnati’s club-wide failures in just two years, the club did bring in a plethora of attacking talent during the offseason. The additions of Jurgen Locadia, Yuya Kubo, and Siem de Jong should help them find goals. With such offensive talent, they should score goals, but problems exist at the other end. This is the same team that conceded the most goals in a single MLS season last year. If that doesn’t improve, no amount of tactics or style will send this team into the round of 16.