Game-Specific Preparation

Course: How To Analyse A Match
Section: 9 - Opposition Analysis
Subsection: 2 - Game-Specific Preparation
Page URL: https://www.skool.com/coachingacademy/classroom/9775ce2d?md=6293681403104702a11cfcf6928a9947

Core Principle

Your opposition analysis only matters if it changes how you prepare.

Pre-Match Tactical Predictions

Based on your analysis, predict:

• Their likely formation - Anticipate tactical setup
• Key individual battles - Identify crucial matchups
• Moments of vulnerability - Plan when to exploit weaknesses
• Their reaction to different scorelines - Prepare for various game states

Set Piece Analysis

Study their corners, free kicks, and throw-ins. Most amateur teams have 2-3 set routines maximum. Knowing them gives you massive advantages.

Set Piece Intelligence Gathering:

• Corner kick routines - Near post, far post, short corner patterns
• Free kick setups - Direct shots, lay-offs, crossing patterns
• Throw-in strategies - Long throws, quick throws, movement patterns
• Defensive set piece organization - Marking systems, zonal vs man-marking

Individual Matchup Assessment

Identify the key battles:

• Your fastest player vs their slowest defender - Exploit pace advantages
• Your strongest player vs their weakest aerial presence - Dominate physical contests
• Your most creative player vs their most defensive midfielder - Create space and opportunities

Create specific preparation for each key battle.

Implementation Strategy

Pre-Match Preparation Framework:

1. Formation Adaptation - Adjust shape to exploit their weaknesses
2. Individual Instructions - Specific roles for key battles
3. Set Piece Planning - Counter their routines, exploit their weaknesses
4. Tactical Triggers - When to implement specific strategies
5. Plan B Preparation - Alternative approaches if initial plan fails

Training Focus Areas:

• Practice against their formation - Simulate their tactical setup
• Rehearse exploitation patterns - Drill specific attacking sequences
• Set piece preparation - Practice both defensive and attacking scenarios
• Individual battle preparation - Work on specific matchup advantages
• Scenario planning - Practice responses to different game situations

Communication Strategy:

• Clear individual roles - Each player knows their specific task
• Simple trigger phrases - Easy-to-understand tactical adjustments
• Visual aids - Use diagrams to show tactical concepts
• Scenario briefings - Explain responses to different situations
• Confidence building - Emphasize your team’s advantages and preparation