U17 1. Division (Denmark) – HB Køge vs FC Roskilde

The two teams showed their identity and stuck to what they wanted on the pitch. This is very encouraging considering that they are two clubs that are productive in their academies (especially Køge) in a country that encourages planning in the academies and long term investment in local talents. While HBK started the game with high intensity and quality, a fast goal and some dangerous situations, Roskilde quickly reacted and carried out their energy and commitment throughout the game to grab a well fought win.

Martin Christensen set up his team (HBK) with a clear 1-4-2-3-1 formation both with and without the ball. On the ball HBK while looking for the right pass and space to attack, kept a high tempo on the ball and worked on their classic approach on overloads around the ball handler. That was visible especially with both of their fullbacks standing high on the pitch where after the first pass from the stoppers or the keeper, they always found themselves with a numerical advantage, or a spare player in the half spaces or the pitch’s width.

Without the ball HBK’s approach was to lock central spaces with a structured 1-4-2-3-1 both in opponent goal kicks and in open play where they did not approach the opponent with full aggression and chose to sit almost in a mid-block with a high back 4 line.

On the other hand, Christian Camilo Lindegaard showed a clear identity of high intensity attacking football with a 1-4-2-3-1 (1-4-3-3 with one midfielder in a bit more advanced spaces) and a more direct approach especially as soon as his team regained possession anywhere on the pitch. While holding onto the ball whenever it was needed, it was clear from the start that Roskilde wanted to have a direct approach and that can be seen by their attitude on and off the ball and their attacking runs and supporting options.

On their first pressure, Roskilde stood with a straight front three line, which was supported by the midfield trio covering any central options as well as high fullbacks which had the same role. There was significant energy and aggression throughout the game from the majority of the players which made it difficult for HBK to break through at times. It is not random that they are 4th in PPDA (Pass per defensive action) with 7.19 passes before retention.

A very exciting match to watch where the score indicates it was a clear win from Roskilde and while Roskilde earned a deserved win it was a very even match that both sides played some exciting football and showcased interesting talent:

Adam Choukri (HB Køge), right winger born in 2008.

Adam showed good energy from the start of the game and took the most initiative upfront for his team. His qualities rely on his first touch (and orientation) and his 1v1 offensive ability. While being aggressive with the ball and had good decisions on where to position himself, he could have had better decisions and attitude through the game. He showed that he can be really dangerous and can work with his teammates although defensively he could improve both in effort and ability to press and defend in 1v1 situations.

He could be considered as a quality player going up to u19s next year show the ability to be a potential senior player or a developing asset for his club and clubs at similar level.

Noah Kongsdal Sørensen (HB Køge), right-back born in 2008.

One of the players that showed good attitude considering Roskilde’s energy and aggression on and off the ball. Consistent overloads from his side. Overall very good positioning when his team had the ball, intelligence and movement along with his good technique for his position can lift his side to a good level.

He can do a lot of things as an attacking fullback with mostly quality decisions throughout the game. Definitely an U19 contender and one to watch for the upcoming years from senior clubs at 1. Division level or hopefully higher.

Emil Ciltik (FC Roskilde), defensive midfielder born in 2008.

The big presence in the midfield throughout the whole time he was used. He won most of his duels and most of them in places where counter attacks were created, he took the ball up the pitch and went down to progress with it. Really good positioning most of the time and aggressive with and without the ball which gave Roskilde the speed in transitions they are looking for. He was consistently present and with his first touch quality and offensive mind he lifted his team in a high tempo.

For his position he should improve his passing which while being effective and his decisions being good, he can improve to reach another level. His physicality is a big positive but he has to be aware that he has to improve his agility and speed so he can compete at a senior level. Definitely a player to look into for a contract as soon as possible.

Tobias Blum (FC Roskilde), central defender born in 2008.

Commanding central defender with many modern assets to his play style. Good at passing, physically strong and tall but fast enough, effective on 1v1 situations for most of the game and really aggressive with the ball either with progressive passes or driving through HBK press. 20 forward passes of which 7 were progressive for his team show of his quality and role when his team has the ball. Overall a player that mostly needs improvement rational for his age, not many things to add on to make him a quality stopper.

His physical attributes can be developed and maintained (agility, speed) to match the speed and quality of senior forwards. He is definitely going to be an asset for a senior team like HBK who gives a chance to young players that have to get senior football as soon as possible.

To FOLLOW also HBK defensive midfielder Nicolai Birkedal Pedersen (2008), defensive midfielder Martin Oliver Larsen (2008); and FC Roskilde’s goalkeeper Elias Gottschalck (2009), right winger Trampe Søholm (2008) and central defender Gustav Wietz (2009).

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