Al Ahly Against Al Ittihad in 2023: Winning the Central Battle

Bagale Pulse Football Analysis • 8 of 30

Historical match analysis: Al Ahly’s 3–1 victory over Al Ittihad at the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup demonstrates how an organised team can limit talented attackers. FIFA’s review focused on the Egyptian side’s pressure and control of central spaces.

The documented approach

FIFA described Al Ahly’s out-of-possession structure as a 4-1-4-1 mid-block. Their midfielders pressed and tracked central opponents, while defenders were ready to challenge receivers between the lines. The review reported an average team length of 26 metres in the mid-block phase, illustrating how closely the units stayed connected.

Our analysis: prevent the service

A dangerous forward becomes easier to contain if passes into them are delayed or made predictable. In an illustrative sequence, pressure on a midfielder forces a pass backwards, allowing the back line to reset. That may not produce a highlight, but it can remove a promising attack before the striker touches the ball.

Watch the cover, not just the duel

Following a forward away from the defensive line creates another problem: somebody must protect the space that defender leaves. Good individual marking can fail without that support. When reviewing a team’s defensive success, ask whether the midfield and back line exchanged responsibilities cleanly, rather than giving all the credit to the player who eventually won the tackle.

What to watch next

For your next match notes, record three occasions when a forward could not receive a pass. Work backwards to identify who blocked the route and how teammates supported them.

Source: FIFA Training Centre: Al Ahly’s block defending and central pressure. Interpretation and viewing exercises: Bagale Pulse.