The Half Space @_TheHalfSpace

The opposition fullbacks are purposely given a bit more space in an attempt to bait the buildup through the wings. The ball going wide triggers the press, squeezing the ball carrier against the touchline, forcing a clearance or risk turning it over in a dangerous area.

When out of possession, Benfica set up in a 4-4-2, which is being seen more and more across Europe. This provides a solid back 4 whilst restricting build up through the centre of the pitch by cutting off the passing lanes between the central defenders and midfielders.

Benfica have been impressive this season, topping their Champions League group which included PSG and Juventus, and making it to the semi-final. They're also currently leading the Portuguese top flight, all while having sold key players over the last two transfer windows.

Once the ball crosses the halfway line, they will revert back to their original shape. This allows them to compact the pitch and restrict the number of passing options while also retaining an outlet for when possession is regained.

Off the ball, Arsenal press high in an attempt to force the opposition long and then contest the second ball. The press starts as their typical 4-2-3-1, but the build-up coming through the right-hand side triggers Odegaard to jump and changes the shape to a 4-4-2.

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After a disappointing end to last season, Mikel Arteta's Arsenal have finally found their feet and currently sit top of the Premier League table with 9 games left. He's 8 points ahead of his mentor, Pep Guardiola, and you can see the similarities between their styles of play.

Out of possession Reims set up in a 4-4-2, sitting narrow and not allowing space between the lines for the opposition to play through. This crowding of the centre of the pitch forces the ball wide making it easier to pin the opponent against the touchline using the press.

They switch the play in an attempt to shift the opposition block and create space to exploit. The 10 often drifts over to the right half space between the striker and winger. This overloads the right side and is how Munetsi scored their second goal against Toulouse.

There's been a lot of talk about Will Still over the past few months. He's currently unbeaten in his first 16 league games in charge of Reims, including an away trip to PSG. Still has achieved this whilst also being the youngest manager (30) in Europe's top 5 leagues.

Out of possession, Brighton pressed in a 4-1-3-2 to stop play into the 6. The pressing runs angle from inside to out forcing the build up wide and the fullbacks jump to their opposing winger. March tucks in to cover the midfield and Tete is forced long, losing possession.

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When building wide, Estupiñán tucks in, Mitoma drops back holding the width. (pic 1) Estupiñán underlaps dragging Wilson with him and Mitoma has drawn Tete out. (pic 2) Mac Allister drops deep and receives the ball with space to turn and play Estupinan in. (pic 3&4)

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Roberto De Zerbi sets his Brighton side up in a 2-4-4 when on the ball, forming a box shape deep within their own half. The aim is to invite a high press to get one of their midfielders space to turn and play dangerous vertical passes behind the opponents back line.