Sometimes, champions emerge from tumultuous paths rather than smooth journeys, especially in tournaments like the World Cup. Each edition offers examples showcasing the trials endured by eventual champions. From these journeys, valuable lessons emerge.
Subtle Performance in the Group Stage
In the initial group phase, where teams play merely three matches for qualification, consistency holds significance. Yet, history reveals that champions seldom dazzle with extraordinary scores or impeccable records during this phase. Take Italy in 2006, gathering only seven points with unremarkable performances. Their draw against the US hinted at a struggle, needing a win in the final match for qualification.
In 2010, Spain faced similar challenges despite their Euro 2008 triumph. A defeat to Switzerland marked their path, securing passage with a modest six points and just four goals scored.
Germany mirrored this in 2014, thrashing Portugal 4-0 initially but stumbling against Ghana in the subsequent match. Their narrow 1-0 win against the US in the final group game highlighted their less-than-dominant performance.
The trend persisted in the 2018 edition with France. Despite being eventual champions, their group stage displayed a lack of dominance, scoring merely three goals and accruing seven points without captivating performances.
Rely on the Coach's Instinct
Another crucial aspect is placing faith in the coach's decisions. Fans often question why in-form club players aren't included in the World Cup squad. However, a coach's discretion, often distinct from public opinion, prevails. They might opt for trusted individuals who've demonstrated compatibility, despite sporadic appearances or injury concerns at the club level.
Consider Ronaldo Nazario in 2002. He struggled before the World Cup, tallying just 10 goals across two seasons with Inter due to recurring injuries. Yet, Luis Felipe Scolari's unwavering belief revitalized Ronaldo, proving his worth on the grand stage.
Italy's 2006 campaign mirrored this belief. Marcelo Lippi's decision to include the recovering Francesco Totti, doubted by many due to his injury, paid dividends. Totti's role as a second striker crucially impacted Italy's gameplay.
In 2010, Del Bosque faced a similar dilemma with Iker Casillas, despite a subpar club season. His persistence in starting Casillas over other goalkeeping options showcased the power of trust.
Germany's 2014 success owed something to Joachim Loew's decision to include Bastian Schweinsteiger despite a decline in form. Schweinsteiger's leadership in midfield proved pivotal in Germany's triumphant campaign.
The 2018 World Cup highlighted Paul Pogba's case. Despite a contentious season with Manchester United, Didier Deschamps' faith in him as a core midfield player ultimately paid off for France.
Mid-Competition Strategy Tweaks
The coach's adaptability mid-tournament marks the third crucial factor. Evolution through learning and assessment drives championship-bound teams, a trait evident in their willingness to change.
Consider the 2002 Brazilian midfield shuffle. Initially, they fielded Gilberto Silva and Juninho in a specific role setup. Scolari's pivot was introducing Kleberson for Juninho, a move towards durability. Brazil found greater balance and solidity as a result.
Italy's 2006 campaign witnessed Lippi's alteration from a 4-3-1-2 formation to a 4-4-1-1 setup during the Czech match. The shift to a single striker and bolstering the midfield augmented their consistency and solidity.
Del Bosque in 2010 refrained from Barcelona's famed 4-3-3, opting for a 4-2-3-1 with tactical changes in later stages. Shifting David Villa centrally and instructing Iniesta to adapt were pivotal.
Germany's 2014 journey included Philipp Lahm's transition from midfield to right-back and adjustments in the attacking trio, with Miroslav Klose gaining prominence from the quarterfinals onward.
Deschamps led France through a notable change in the 2018 edition. Starting with a 4-3-3, they later adopted a 4-2-3-1 formation, repositioning Giroud and integrating Matuidi for balance, resulting in a successful shift in pattern.
At times, the scorer's role isn't defined by the No. 9 position in championship teams. Italy in 2006 witnessed Toni and Gilardino, often the "Number 9" players, amassing merely 3 goals combined.
Spain's 2010 success saw David Villa, positioned on the left flank, emerge as their top scorer, overshadowing Torres, the designated "Number 9".
Germany's 2014 campaign had Thomas Muller as their leading scorer, operating as a False Nine within Loew's tactics. Meanwhile, Miroslav Klose, deployed as the "Number 9," only managed 1 goal.
The 2018 edition mirrored this trend. Despite Giroud's role as the "Number 9" for France, he didn't score. Instead, Griezmann from a deeper position led with 4 goals, emphasizing the evolving dynamics of goal scoring in modern football.
source: theathletic, skysports,
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