Tag: Canada

Canada 2-0 USA – Match Analysis

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Managers, Match Analysis, World Cup 2022, World Football

Unbeaten in ten matches in the final round of World Cup Qualifying. If you had said that to me a year ago - that Canada were going to reach these impeccable heights, I would not have believed you. Our men's team hasn't qualified for a World Cup since 1986, and has only beaten the States one other time in the past 37 years. The miracles under John Herdman keep coming true, and we are now one step closer to qualifying for our first World Cup in over thirty years. Here is my tactical analysis of Canada's 2-0 win over the US.

Why Jonathan David is perfect for Arsenal

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Data Analysis, Player Analysis, Player Education, Premier League, Recruitment & Scouting, Striker, World Football

Arsenal need a new striker. With Aubameyang out of favour and Lacazette out of contract, that much is clear. But the man that comes into the club next needs to not only be a player who can score goals, but someone who possesses the characteristics of Arteta's style of play. That player needs to be capable of pressing high, linking up with others in possession, and playing on the break. So as Arsenal prepare their search for a new striker, we suggest they take a seriously look at Jonathan David.

John Herdman – Canada – Tactical Analysis

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Managers, Team Analysis, World Football

After years of barely even being on the football map, Canada are suddenly thriving and well under the new leadership of John Herdman. The Canadian Men's National Team have won 71% of their matches since Herdman took over, following up from his personal successes with the Women's team, where he helped the nation claim two Olympic bronze medals in 2012 and 2016. His first mission as men's national team coach was to help the Canadians earn their first qualification to a World Cup since 1986, and they have now gone 13 matches unbeaten in qualifying, with 9 wins and 4 draws. With just a few games to go in the round robin, Canada look destined to qualify for their first major international tournament in thirty-five years. Here is an analysis of John Herdman's work with the Canadian Men's National Team.

CONCACAF Qualifiers: What is the Best Formation for Canada’s Men’s National Team?

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Canadian Premier League, World Football

It’s early days for the Canadian Men’s National Team, but there is a lot to be optimistic about. After a 5-1 win to open their 2022 World Cup Qualifying campaign, here are some thoughts on the way that John Herdman is lining up players and moving them around the field. In a world where just a few years ago, the biggest club representative of Canada was Unattached FC™, it is nice to see some healthy competition and tough decisions for the coach.

Previewing the international break (March 2021) – Netherlands, Germany and Canada

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Premier League

The first international break of 2021 kicks off an exciting spring/summer in the world of football with three major tournaments: the Euros, Copa America and Olympic Games -  taking place in a few months' time. All three tournaments were supposed to take place in 2020, however due to the COVID-19 pandemic they were pushed to 2021. Here we will highlight a few teams and storylines to keep an eye on this international break.