To suggest that Real Madrid was outclassed by PSG in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 fixture would be an understatement. Truth be told, Real Madrid did not even compete in the match. Even if the scoreline read 1-0, it felt like a 3-0 or 4-0 mauling.
Apart from Courtois and Militao, there was no other bright spot on a gloomy night for Real Madrid. The fans expect a lot more from their team because this is the biggest club in Europe we are talking about. A remontada is possible, but recent performances leave a lot to be desired.
We discuss three tactical changes that Carlo Ancelotti must consider to reverse the tie and achieve a memorable comeback in the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 game against PSG at the Santiago Bernabeu.
1. Play four midfielders
The royal midfield of Kroos, Casemiro, and Modric are jewels of Real Madrid. They have won so much for the club that any criticism hurled at them seems harsh and rude. However, against PSG they were overrun and dominated by Veratti and co. by a long mile.
To put salt on the wounds, Casemiro is suspended for the second leg and Toni Kroos has suffered a hamstring injury. Ancelotti already had a big dilemma on his hands as to whom should cover for Casemiro. But now has to account for the loss of Kroos.
Without Kroos and Casemiro, Real Madrid will lack control. Therefore Ancelotti must consider starting four midfielders. Valverde has to step up big time in this game. He has the legs to run throughout the game and the dynamism to destabilize the opposition. It would be prudent to put in Camavinga. He is not a pure defensive midfielder but can play pretty well in a double pivot often stepping up to win the ball back in good areas. He has feistiness about him that could prove to be match-changing.
2016-18 Isco would have been a god-sent for this type of game. This season has been a start-stop for him. He started the season well but then fell off the cliff. However, Carlo has utilized him in the Cup games where he played well and also as a false 9 in a couple of games. Playing Isco could prove to be a gamble but if it does come off then he can be a handful in keeping the ball and wriggling out of tough spots.
With Valverde and Camavinga in the side, Real Madrid can try to press PSG and put them under pressure. Both are energetic ball winners and can make a difference. Asensio has been scoring goals without being spectacular. However, if there was one game where Carlo could put in his young midfielders to test and gauge their big match temperament, it is this one.