San Lorenzo de Almagro, known as Los Cuervos, has had a rollercoaster of a season in Liga Profesional Argentina. With the league's intensity increasing, it’s become clear that tactical adjustments are necessary to maximize the squad's potential and improve results. The team has shown glimpses of brilliance but has struggled with consistency, especially in matches where they have faced well-organized defenses. This article delves into the recent tactical setup and suggests some tweaks that could bring San Lorenzo back into contention.

Current Tactical Setup

The current formation under coach Marcelo Moretti has predominantly been a 4-3-3, which has allowed for fluid attacking play. The front three has shown promise, with players such as Nicolás Blanco and R. Auzmendi frequently interchanging positions to create space. However, the midfield has often looked overrun, especially against teams employing a high press or a compact 4-2-3-1 formation.

The reliance on a single pivot in midfield has left the defense exposed at times, particularly when full-backs push high up the pitch to support attacks. Opponents have exploited this by quickly transitioning to counter-attacks, leading to goals conceded in critical moments. To address this, a shift to a double pivot in midfield could provide better balance, allowing for increased defensive stability while still supporting the attack.

Suggested Tweaks

1. Implement a Double Pivot: Transitioning to a 4-2-3-1 could bolster the midfield and provide an additional layer of protection for the defense. This structure would enable the likes of M. de Ritis and M. Insaurralde to control the tempo and dictate play while also being responsible for breaking up opposition attacks. The double pivot can help in maintaining possession and creating better distribution options for the forwards.

2. Utilizing Wingers Effectively: The current wingers should be instructed to cut inside more often, allowing the overlapping full-backs to provide width. This tactic would create space in the final third, making it difficult for opposing defenses to mark players effectively. Additionally, it would enable a more dynamic attacking approach, increasing the likelihood of creating goal-scoring opportunities.

3. High Press Adjustments: While San Lorenzo has shown an inclination to press high, the lack of coordination among forwards has often led to gaps being left in the midfield. Implementing a more structured pressing system, where the front three engages in coordinated pressing while the midfield maintains a compact shape, could better stifle opposition build-up play and regain possession higher up the pitch.

Conclusion

San Lorenzo de Almagro possesses the talent and potential to compete at the highest level, but tactical adjustments are crucial for their resurgence in Liga Profesional. By implementing a double pivot, effectively utilizing wingers, and refining their pressing strategy, Los Cuervos can enhance their overall performance. The upcoming matches will be a litmus test for these changes, and with the right tweaks, San Lorenzo may well find themselves on a path to success.