Osasuna manager Alessio Lisci has shared his thoughts ahead of a tough La Liga clash against Barcelona, offering insight into how his team plans to deal with one of the most difficult systems in Spanish football.
Lisci first focused on Barcelona’s defensive structure, especially their high line and offside trap, which has troubled many teams this season.
He explained how difficult it is to prepare for such a style in a short time and what his team must do differently.
“It’s about being able to neutralise their offside trap. It’s very difficult because you don’t have time to prepare for the match.
“That’s why many teams struggle to do it, as the players have their set patterns and the things they’ve been working on all year.
“Suddenly, a team comes along that plays in a completely different way and defends in a completely different way, and it’s not easy for the team to automate certain movements in such a short space of time.
“We’ve worked on it. In the first leg, we didn’t attack much, but when we did attack, we managed to catch them out.
Alessio Lisci is confident of Osasuna’s chances vs Barcelona. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
“Let’s see if tomorrow we can maintain more continuity and cause them more damage.”
The El Clasico distraction
The Osasuna coach also addressed whether Barcelona might be distracted by the upcoming El Clasico against Real Madrid, where they can be crowned as La Liga champions.
Lisci made it clear that he does not expect any drop in focus from a team of Barcelona’s level.
“I don’t think they will be distracted. Besides, they had a tough time here last year. I think they’ll want to put in a great performance.
“I can’t imagine players of that calibre thinking about the next match. I think they’ll come out all guns blazing tomorrow and will want to win.”
Lastly, despite the challenge ahead, Lisci maintained a positive outlook when asked about his team’s chances.
“Yes, always. Whichever team comes, I’m optimistic,” he concluded.
Source: AS
