Why Pochettino's fluid USA midfield is thriving

Why Pochettino's fluid USA midfield is thrivingImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Mauricio Pochettino's USA team scored four goals against Paraguay from six shots on target with an expected goals of 1.34ByUmir IrfanFootball tactics correspondentPublished1 minute agoCommentsFor the past couple of seasons, many teams looking to dominate the ball have done so in a rigid manner. A very common shape in possession has been the 3-2-2-3 set-up, with a box in midfield - teams such as Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal have moved a full-back into midfield to achieve this.In this World Cup, teams have been willing to reimagine that strict structure, taking a more fluid approach on the ball and one of the best examples has been Mauricio Pochettino's USA.Here we analyse the shape, movement and intention behind their unique approach as they look to continue their fine start to the World Cup when they face Australia in Group D on Friday (20:00 BST).There was a difficulty in pinpointing the formation USA used in their impressive 4-1 win against Paraguay last Saturday.On paper, you could argue it was a 4-2-3-1 shape with Sergino Dest as the right winger.When USA got on the ball, however, it looked more like a three at the back – a fairly common tactic. Image source, OptaImage caption, USA's starting XI against Paraguay in their opening World Cup match was set up in a 4-2-3-1 shape, but moved away from thatThe USA's right-back Alex Freeman and centre-backs Chris Richards and Tim Ream formed a back three with central midfielder Tyler Adams positioned in front of them. Left-back Antonee Robinson pushed up and mirrored Dest's more advanced role on the other side - both of them hugging the touchline. Folarin Balogun stayed high up the pitch in a striker's position. Left-winger Christian Pulisic moved in-field from the wing and adopted a central position alongside midfielders Malik Tillman and Weston McKennie.For many coaches using a traditional...