Akwa to Play Alone up Front

June 5th, 2006 | By: WC Bob | 3 Comments »

Reports out of Angola’s training camp say that the Palancas will use a 4-5-1 formation during the World Cup with Akwa being the lone forward. This is a switch from the 4-4-2 during the CAN and is different than the 3-5-2 that coach Goncalves has been experiementing with during the recent friendlies.

“As it’s new, we’re still getting used to it, adapting ourselves to this style of game so we can be prepared for the game against Portugal. But we don’t have much time left to get ready,” Akwa said.

“The coach thinks it’s better for us. As a player, I have to accept and respect his tactical option. But as we’re adapting to a new system, we have to concentrate harder.”

While I am a bit uncomfortable having the formation changed this late in preparations, I think it might be a good move. The midfield has been very inconsistent in the friendlies and the backline has been prone to mistakes. A 4-5-1 formation should bolster the defense, but will Akwa have enough support to score?

What do you think about this decision?



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Comments
Username By Clare | June 5th, 2006 at 6:11 am
top comment
cornercorner

Aussie Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Oi

Australia are going to win the world cup! :)

Posted from Australia Australia

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Username By ricardo | June 5th, 2006 at 7:39 am
top comment
cornercorner

In general i’d agree with you that it seems like a good move, but i fear it will leave Angola lacking creativity upfront and relying solely on fastbreak.
What i fear will happen is the opposition will still get a goal at same stage and then a changes in tactics and personnel will be needed to chase the arrears.
Also, playing the 4-5-1 will most likely mean that Angola’s most creative player Mantorras will not be playing a lot which i feel is a shame for the fans and for the whole tournament.

R.

Posted from Netherlands Netherlands

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Username By Dido | June 5th, 2006 at 9:22 am
top comment
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I agree that playing with a lone striker is risky, as Portugal would still score anyway. The fact that Mantorras wont be starting and that Akwa will have to take on defenders “alone”, is not very appealing. I still think that a 4-4-2 formation would be the best way to deal with opponents in the WC.

Posted from United Kingdom United Kingdom

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