Chaos vs. Control: A Collision of Principles

Some like to approach games in a disciplined structure, intentionally and meticulously dictating games to their own tempo. Others opt for a more emotionally-charged philosophy, reliant on the belief, energy and willpower of their trusted eleven on the field.

Game of Numbers #37 – Forge FC’s use of centre-backs in midfield like Manchester City

For the unfamiliar, Forge FC are the Manchester City of the Canadian Premier League. They play a possession-based 4-3-3, stacked with ball-savvy savants, and a culture that embodies winning. The Canadian Premier League's been around since 2019 now. Forge have won the Playoffs in four of the five seasons, and lost the final in the one other at the hands of players they recruited to their team immediately after.

Why centre-backs are becoming fullbacks: The tactical trend that defined 2023

It might be wrong to credit this tactical approach to Pep Guardiola. After all, the origin story to the 'fullback' is because the defender was fully back. However, in operating with a centre-back that steps up into midfield, Guardiola also created a construction within his team that regularly positioned centre-backs out wide. From then on, this approach has only become more popular. It's been the top tactical trend of 2023, and often one that's allowed the best teams in the world to thrive.

Comparing the Canadian Premier League’s next best centre-forwards

The best strikers in the modern era are able to combine a vast array of skillsets. We've seen this play out in the CPL this season, with those unable to fully combine all the necessary skillsets also failing to turn their talents into goals. Here is my analysis of four of the next best centre-forwards in the CPL.

Comparing the Canadian Premier League’s elite centre-forwards

The best strikers in the modern era are able to combine a vast array of skillsets. We've seen this play out in the CPL this season, with those able to combine this 'all in one' approach excelling to new heights this season. Terran Campbell and Myer Bevan have been the two that have set the league on fire the most, but Shaan Hundal has also enjoyed a promising start to the season up front through being more than just a 'Target'.

Why all footballers need to be versatile

As young players develop their game and often get pigeon-held into certain positions and roles, I often encourage them to develop variety and versatility within the number of roles and positions they can play.