That's why Nuremberg was so disappointing!

Title: Why Nuremberg's Performance Left Fans Disappointed

"It's disheartening when your team falls short, even if they've shown resilience in the past."

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Embarking on his second division journey with FCN, coach Cristian Fiél (43) promised fans that their players would give their all, even in defeat. And indeed, they had. But since the international break, the team seemed to have lost their spark.

Fiél: "No team should lose like that, but when opponents get carried away - their coach even spoke of a 'perfect game' - it's frustrating. And today, it was particularly frustrating."

Mathenia (31), the FCN keeper, was more candid: "We were lacking in practically everything required to win a game in the 2nd division from the start. And that, from the first minute. It's hard to find words for this performance. Any words would be too many today."

While it's easy to blame the opponents for FCN's poor showing, the team must take responsibility for their performance. Three goals conceded within minutes before half-time can happen against strong Fortunen. However, a second half devoid of resistance and a shot on target until the 83rd minute is not acceptable.

Fiél's absence of key players, particularly Jens Castrop (20), who was suspended due to a straight red card, resulted in a lack of bite and midfield presence. The absence of Castrop, coupled with continued absence of Florian Flick (23) and Ali Loune (21) after the break, and Johannes Geis (30) no longer being an asset, left them with a significantly weakened midfield.

Additionally, the opponents were once again well-prepared for FCN's tactics. Shutting down the midfield, pressing the club hard, and targeting Uzun left the club without the joy of playing. Missing the physicality and heading power, both offensively and defensively, proved to be their undoing.

According to the match statistics, FCN struggled in various aspects:

► Only 32 percent of header duels won ► 43 percent tackle rate ► One shot on goal for Düsseldorf ► Ran four kilometers less than the opponent ► Only 39 percent possession ► Almost every sixth pass resulted in the opponent's possession

The upcoming cup match against Lauterer presents an opportunity to regain some lost ground, with Castrop's suspension now over. But to improve their performance in the 2nd division, they must address issues in midfield control, heading power, and physicality.

Opportunities to Improve

1. Midfield Control: Signing a central midfielder with the ability to dictate the game's tempo and provide stability is crucial. Improving defensive midfield play can also help in reducing opposition attacks and support the club's attacking efforts.
2. Heading Power: Acquiring a target man who excels in aerial battles and possesses the physicality needed for the 2nd division can significantly boost the team's heading power. Investing in youth development programs may also help build a strong aerial presence in the future.
3. Physicality: Signing players who can cope with the 2nd division's rigorous demands and provide a physical presence in games is essential. Regular training and sports science support can improve the overall fitness of the squad.
4. Tactical Adjustments: Adapting tactics to better utilize the squad's strengths and weaknesses can rejuvenate the team. This may include using a target man in set pieces or playing more direct football.
5. Youth Development: Investing in youth development programs can help build a resilient, physically demanding, and technically skilled squad for the future.

By addressing these areas, FCN can bolster their performance in the 2nd division and further grow as a team.

Related Content

• Following their 2nd league match, coach Cristian Fiél's promise of passion and comeback qualities went unfulfilled, with FCN struggling for control and consistency against Fortuna Düsseldorf. Despite their poor performance, they remain hopeful for improvement and a resurgence in success.
• Midfield Control: The team struggled to maintain a grip on the midfield due to the absence of key players, as well as the opponents' effective deployment of counterpressing tactics. Defensive midfield play required fortifying, and considering signing a central midfielder to provide stability.
• Heading Power and Physicality: The team's penalty area was exposed, as they struggled in both offense and defense to win header duels and tackles. Lacking a target man or someone with aerial prowess, as well as players with the physicality required for the 2nd division, they struggled to compete effectively against their opponents.
• Tactical Adjustments: The team lacked a clear plan to counter their opponents' tactics and adapt to the game. A more direct approach, targeting the opponents' weaknesses, or focusing more on set pieces could potentially improve their chances of scoring and winning games.

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