Tactics Talk

Analysis / Tactics Talk / USMNT

All right and getting narrow: two thoughts on tactics

The Union changed their right-sided attack on Saturday, and gave one author flashbacks to the USMNT’s loss against Holland

Photo by Earl Gardner
Tactics Talk

Tactical thinking: Options for the Union in 2017

Philly will likely stick with their 4-2-3-1 in 2017 even though many have suggested utilizing a 4-4-2 or three-back system. What were the Union hoping to achieve with their particular system, and what are the pros and cons of the other options?

Tactics Talk

Making adjustments to a very good offense

The Union’s offense has scored a lot of goals, but that doesn’t mean there is room for improvement. Given how Chicago kept Philly quiet last weekend, what areas can the team work on over the last few games?

Tactics Talk

Counteracting the high press

How might the Union approach the extreme high press if teams continue to use it to disrupt their buildups?

Photo by Earl Gardner
Tactics Talk

The shape of the Union

Philadelphia Union are committed to a variant of the 4-3-3 this season. Why has the club adopted what can seem like a stubborn stance on team shape? And will they stick with it?

Preseason / Tactics Talk

PSP talks to Jim Curtin: ‘Defense first’ is more than just a mantra

The Union allowed 55 goals last season. To bring that number down the club drafted for defense, and Jim Curtin is looking to implement a top-to-bottom press that takes advantage of the team’s athletic back line in 2016.

Tactics Talk

Strategic analysis of Sporting Kansas City: A story of subtle change

Sporting Kansas City’s tactical shape is the same, but Peter Vermes’ approach has evolved as his squad has changed. The team facing off against Philadelphia on Wednesday night will have a different strategy than the one that hoisted the US Open Cup in 2012.

Photo by Earl Gardner
Tactics Talk / US Open Cup

U.S. Open Cup Final: The Mystery of Chessboxin’

It’s time to start thinking about the tactical approach to the US Open Cup final. Kevin Kinkead gets the conversation started.

Tactics Talk

Final Third Entries, Part 3 (FC Dallas)

Kevin Kinkead’s series looking at the Union’s final third entries through the first three games concludes with the loss to Dallas

Tactics Talk

Final Third Entries, Part 2 (RSL)

Kevin Kinkead’s series looking at the Union’s final third entries through the first three games continues with the draw at Salt Lake.