Daily Archives: September 30, 2023

Keeping the threat alive: The importance of the second phase at corners

“When a stat about goals from corners pops up during a Premier League match, a common question from viewers is why the number of goals their team has scored from them is higher than they expected. Any confusion generally arises because of goals that are scored in the second phase of corners. The second phase starts when the team taking the corner quickly collects the ball after it was cleared — or in some cases overhit — and is in position to attack again with most of the attacking players still in the box. …”
The Athletic

What’s Wrong With German Football?

“Over the last century, Germany has had one of the best football teams in the world. They’ve won four World Cups, three European Championships and produced some of the greatest players the world has ever seen. And yet, after nearly a decade of underachievement, they are currently ranked only 15th-best in the world. Written by Seb Stafford-Bloor, illustrated by Craig Silcock.”
YouTube

Xabi Alonso and why everyone wants Bayer Leverkusen head coach

“From the relegation zone to being level on points with Bayern Munich at the top of the Bundesliga, Xabi Alonso has led Bayer Leverkusen on quite the ride in his 12 months as manager. Some sort of rebound was almost inevitable given the team’s talent, but the complete change in the team’s attitude under the Spaniard has been nothing short of remarkable. …”
The Athletic