Tactical Breakdown: How CD Leganés Challenged Manuel Pellegrini's Betis

In a thrilling encounter during March 2025, CD Leganés faced off against Manuel Pellegrini's Real Betis, a match that showcased not only the tactical acumen of Pellegrini but also the strategic resilience of Leganés. While Betis emerged victorious with a narrow 3-2 win, the match was a testament to the tactical depth displayed by both sides, and particularly how CD Leganés managed to challenge a formidable opponent.

CD Leganés approached the game with a 4-2-3-1 formation, a setup that provided a balance between defensive solidity and attacking flexibility. The two holding midfielders were crucial in this setup, offering a shield to the back four while also launching forward passes to exploit spaces in Betis' half. The attacking trio behind the lone striker was pivotal, with the central attacking midfielder often dropping deep to create overloads in the midfield.

One of the standout tactical elements was Leganés' use of high pressing to disrupt Betis' build-up play. The front four, led by their energetic striker, pressed aggressively, forcing Betis to commit errors or play long balls, which were then contested vigorously by Leganés' midfielders. This approach not only minimized Betis' time on the ball but also led to several turnovers in dangerous areas.

Defensively, Leganés showed remarkable discipline. The back four maintained a compact shape, with full-backs tucking in to offer additional support against Betis' wide attackers. This compactness forced Betis to attempt intricate passing through the middle, an area where Leganés had already established numerical superiority.

Offensively, Leganés capitalized on quick transitions. Whenever possession was won, the team swiftly moved the ball forward, often targeting the channels to exploit Betis' high defensive line. The wingers played a key role in stretching the play and providing crosses into the box, creating several goal-scoring opportunities that tested Betis' defensive organization.

Despite the eventual loss, CD Leganés' strategic approach against a top-tier side like Real Betis was commendable. The tactical blueprint they employed highlighted their capacity to compete at a high level, offering a glimpse into the potential of this side when executing well-honed strategies. The match not only celebrated Pellegrini's tactical prowess but also underscored the competitive spirit and tactical sophistication of CD Leganés.