Match is almost over I see and it could be a close one. Two worthy opponents!
The only negative for Lobo is team speed - besides Zanetti/Matthaus this sides lacks real pace.
Lovely players and combinations but if Lobo thinks he’s gonna to win via out muscling us (Souness, Krychowiak, and Mascherano) or pace, then there’s some delusion present.
The second point is that I think he lacks “special players” those needed to unlock the defense. Platini, Socrates and Kempes are good/great players but not special in the same way Cruyff or Messi are...
I love his front three, really do, but they are similar in their body styles, right foot dominance and their ability to do one or two things very well.
Not hard to snuff out and don’t see the same kind of cleverness that Messi, Cruyff, Stoichkov or Shev bring... That four bring everything you need:
Dribble penetration
A deft pass from either side or foot
A world class finish, ball strike or free kick
Movement across the final third impossible to defend
I like my colossuses in the middle protecting the front four in Souness and Krychowiak, great on restarts and help recycle the ball for another attack.
The wing backs are your garden variety one club marking backs who give everything and run all day - and the center backs are experienced, tough and bring different things (reading and reacting).
Would be fine if either team wins imo - two very competitive sides but Messi, Cruyff, Stoichkov, Souness and Mascherano tip the scales.
Also, Lobo had first pick, he might have constructed a better attacking side if he had a do over imo
Did I mention today that I turned 52 years young? Would happily trade this match for a Liverpool win tomorrow! Beat those mancs!!!
Good luck either way Lobo