Is the high defensive line really the answer against PSG?
The high defensive line and suffocating pressing have been the brand and the motto of Vincent Kompany's football. It worked on many occasions during this game when Bayern won back possession through double-teaming and created some dangerous counter-attacking opportunities. However, this game has proved that this brand of play might not work against PSG.
Pushing players forward to squeeze the opposition's third leaves the backline extremely vulnerable. Jonathan Tah and Josip Stanisic were the biggest liabilities when they had to match up against PSG's technical and pacey attackers.
Almost every goal Bayern conceded today was the direct result of that high line. Had it not been for Dayot Upamecano and Aleksandar Pavlovic's brilliance, as well as a touch of luck, Bayern could have easily conceded more goals.
Every top head coach would agree that it is counterintuitive and nonsensical to move away from your football identity. Teams have failed when the brand changes too quickly.
Bayern will still press hard and fast in the second leg, but will Vincent Kompany consider a lower backline and a more defensive mentality after the team overcomes the deficit?
He knows first-hand that it worked. PSG is more dangerous on the counter than in a set half-field situation. They have very speedy attackers and a midfield that can escape the press with ease, but not the size and savviness to unpack a low-block setting. During the encounter in the League Phase, Bayern implemented this defensive mentality when Luis Diaz got sent off, and it brought them a crucial victory. Maybe a similar approach at Allianz Aren will be needed once Bayern go ahead on aggregate.
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