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Kenny Cunningham assesses how...

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Kenny Cunningham assesses how Real Madrid might look to stop Liverpool threat

98FM
98FM

10:29 2 May 2018


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So, there we have it! Liverpool will face Real Madrid in the Champions League final in Kiev on May 26th.

A 7-6 aggregate win sealed the deal for Jurgen Klopp's side but the intriguing aspect of the decider will be the fact that Liverpool's defence is an Achilles heel and Real have looked entirely unconvincing en route to the final.

Former Ireland defender Kenny Cunningham joined Kevin Kilbane on our Football Show with BoyleSports and he discussed the likely tactics, including how Real manager Zinedine Zidane may look to counter the Liverpool attacking threat.

Kenny Cunningham assesses how Real Madrid might look to stop Liverpool threat

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"Generally he looks to a midfield four, almost a diamond at times which is great but you leave yourself open down the sides and against teams like Liverpool, in particular, when you envisage the likes of Robertson and Alexander-Arnold flying forward and doubling up with Salah and Mane, you can't afford to do that so I'd be amazed if we don't see a tactical switch from Zidane. He's got to pay Liverpool the respect of shoring up those wide areas," said Kenny.

He believes Real should go 4-5-1 instead with both Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale on the bench and Isco, Lucas Vazquez and Marco Asensio to start in the wide areas due to their defensive discipline and ability to then link up with Cristiano Ronaldo. 

The lads also discussed the changing emphasis in the modern game which has seen many - but not all - elite teams tilted heavily towards attack. 


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