The Spanish national team has undergone a tactical shift in recent weeks, with coach Julen Lopetegui making changes to his defensive setup to improve their performance on the pitch. One of the key changes is the introduction of a 5-defender formation, which has been used by many European clubs in recent years.

The 5-defender formation involves having five defenders on the field at once, with three in a central midfield role and two further down the wing. This allows the team to have more flexibility in their defense, as they can switch between different formations depending on the opponent and the game situation.

One of the main benefits of using a 5-defender formation is that it provides extra cover for the backline, allowing players to move forward to help out in attack when necessary. It also means that there are fewer positions to defend, making it easier for players to stay focused on their assigned duties.

Another advantage of the 5-defender formation is that it can be more effective against certain types of opponents. For example, teams that rely heavily on counter-attacks may struggle against a 5-defender setup, as they will not have enough time to react to set-pieces or quick breaks down the flanks.

Despite these advantages, the 5-defender formation is not without its drawbacks. One issue is that it requires a high level of fitness and concentration from all of the defenders, as they must work together to keep the ball away from the opposition. Additionally, it can be difficult for players to find space in this system, as they are often forced to play deeper than they might like.

Overall, the use of a 5-defender formation by Spain highlights the importance of adapting your tactics to suit the strengths of your team and the specific challenges you face on the pitch. While it may take some getting used to, the benefits of this type of formation could make a significant difference in how your team performs.