The
multi-side effects of forcing the opposition to chase the ball for long periods
is not generally known thus the true value of 'maximized' possession in modern
football is still ignored.
The
truth is that when a technically and tactically intelligent team enforces
sustained possession on its opposition it also inflicts PSYCHOLOGICAL damages.
'Ball deprivation' - especially when the opponents are used to enjoy their own
possession game, e.g., Manchester City – leads the respective players to frustration,
anxiety and errors.
These negative effects on performance are the result of sudden changes in the brain chemistry and NOT because of 'wrong tactics' as Robert Marawa's panel of experts would wrongly insist.
This is an essential aspect of modern football and it is expected that professional coaches and technicians to have full knowledge of it. Apparently, they don't. 'Maximized' possession football has far more benefits than we are prepared to accept.
Fortunately, superiorly developed players - particularly the new generation of young talent coming from elite programs, e.g. Barcelona and Manchester City – will continue to prove and perfect the trend. South Africa can do it too!
