ANALYSIS: Odair’s work regresses and Santos hits the pinnacle of tactical poverty for the year

The loss to Newell’s Old Boys exposed the team’s lack of standard and collective deficiencies

Santos’ 2-1 loss to Newell’s Old Boys in the 5th round of the group stage of the Copa Sudamericana virtually eliminated Alvinegro from the competition. Consolidated the drop, it will be the third only in this first semester – together with the eliminations in Paulistão and Copa do Brasil.

Behind such lower than expected results is the work of Odair Hellmann, who has yet to get going this season. Although the team has shown signs of evolution at one point in the year, especially at the start of the Brasileirão, there has been no sequence. Today it is no exaggeration to say that the coaching job has regressed to the (low) level presented at the state level.

Some aspects can be listed as the cause of this team instability. The amount of changes in the team is one. Odair has already experimented with various tactical formations, from the 4-4-2 in line to the 3-5-2, also passing through the 4-4-2 with a diamond in midfield and even the 4-2-3-1.

These system changes result in a team lacking clear tactical principles and standards. Can you, a Santos fan, define your team’s ‘style’ of play? Santos attack in the center or on the flanks? Do you like possession or are you looking for a counterattack? How do you start and finish your moves? Can these questions be answered?

Without standards, the team that should work collectively ends up depending on individuals for results. It was Lucas Lima, João Paulo, Marcos Leonardo, Dodi, Deivid Washington… practically every week a different player becomes Santos’ new hope for a good performance for the team.

But, and when the quirks don’t work, what’s left? The Sudamericana match should serve as an example for reflection. Today the tactical poverty of the Santos team is evident, and Odair Hellmann is one of those responsible.

Source: Terra

Rose

Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.