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The new tactical approach looks exciting
Vancouver head coach Carl Robinson has switched tactics from 4-2-3-1 to 4-1-4-1. The new approach better utilizes Russell Teibert. The 25-year-old Canadian acts as the pivot player in the formation by playing in-between a four-man defense and three more offensive-minded midfielders.
The system means that the Whitecaps switch to 4-3-3 when going forward with a three-man midfield triangle and Alphonso Davies and Christian Techera acting as attacking-wingers in a three-man attack. That formation worked particularly well in the second-half when Montreal had the majority of possession, and the Whitecaps were able to switch quickly from defensive play to go on the attack, which is how Vancouver scored both goals.
Alphonso Davies scores his first ever MLS goal
The new tactical approach also seems to aid Alphonso Davies. The 17-year-old Canadian wunderkind seemed somewhat stuck in his development towards the end of last season. But he looks more comfortable as a winger in the 4-1-4-1 formation and also has made a significant step forward in his physical development.
Looking lively he was one of the candidates to win the player of the match – the award ended up going to Kei Kamara – by scoring one goal and one assist and being a constant pain in Montreal’s defence. His game-winner was his first ever MLS goal and at the age of 17, four months and two days, Davies is the tenth youngest goalscorer in MLS history.
Kei Kamara is better suited for Robinson’s tactics than Fredy Montero
Kei Kamara looked fantastic on his Whitecaps’ debut. The 33-year-old veteran is faster and more athletic as Fredy Montero and, therefore, fits better into Robinson’s tactics, which focuses heavily on a quick transition play.
Where Montero would hold onto the ball, Kamara likes to quickly play the ball forward or open up space making runs. Scoring the opening goal and creating countless chances on breakaways Kamara could be the missing piece the Whitecaps lacked last season when they failed to finish in the top two in the Western Conference on the final day of the season.
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