Chapter 51: Another Purpose
When the referee blew the whistle signaling the end of the first half, Barcelona fans watched with some disappointment as both teams walked off the pitch. Despite dominating possession for much of the half, Barcelona had been unable to break through Mallorca's defense...
This feeling was familiar to many teams that had faced Mallorca since the start of the second half of the season. Mallorca's defense might not be the most famous, composed of older players, but they were seasoned professionals with exceptional experience. Most opposing players were familiar with them, and although they weren't the most aggressive defenders, they consistently disrupted the attacking flow, making opponents' attacks frustrating and affecting their performance.
The Mallorca players walked proudly into the tunnel. Regardless of Barcelona's relatively weaker form this season, it was still not easy to defeat them, especially at Camp Nou. To lead Barcelona by a goal at halftime and frustrate their attack for most of the half was something worth being proud of.
"We've done well in the first half, but I need to warn you that the second half is where the real test lies. Their attack was a bit disorganized, mostly relying on Rivaldo. But that won't be the case in the second half. I expect Figo to come on. Although Van Gaal wanted him to rest, he won't leave him out in this situation. Once he's on the field, Barcelona's attack will be complete, and the pressure on us will grow. We need to step up our defense even more," José said in the locker room, moving a few pieces representing players' positions on the tactical board.
"We'll continue to tighten our defense, but we must defend even more thoroughly! The fullbacks should drop back into the penalty area to make our defense in the box more compact. This is the kind of defense Barcelona hates most."
José paused and added, "Barcelona's attack is impressive, but their strength is not in overpowering opponents. Kluivert is a great striker, but under Van Gaal, his most valuable role is in creating chances for others. Although he can score, when faced with tight defense, his job is to help teammates by creating space in the box. So, we need to pack the penalty area with defenders. Don't worry about their movements outside the box; just prevent them from cutting inside. Smother them, block them! If they try to cross high balls, I don't believe Kluivert can score over our two central defenders. Mallorca's defense is among the tallest in La Liga, and that's our advantage. We'll make full use of that advantage—defend thoroughly, and show them what impenetrable defense looks like. Even if we score just one goal, we have the ability to hold onto that lead until the final whistle."
José knew that Barcelona's biggest weakness was their struggle against tight defenses. They could thrive in open, attacking games—last season's thrilling high-scoring draws with Bayern and Manchester United were proof of that. But against teams that defended compactly, Barcelona struggled to break through. Despite having a strong striker, good wingers, and long-range shooters, they all needed space to be effective. José's plan was simple: eliminate that space.
"The wingers need to drop back, and forwards, your job isn't just to score but also to disrupt their defense, create chaos. If you get the chance to attack, go for it, but remember—there won't be much support from your teammates. The attack is all on you two," José said, addressing Eto'o and Tristan.
Eto'o and Tristan nodded in understanding. They recognized the trust José was placing in them—he believed they could break through Barcelona's defense, even without much help.