Thomas Frank reveals Brentford’s game plan to stop Erling Haaland in their shock win over Manchester City, claiming their strategy was to close down Kevin de Bruyne and starve the Norwegian forward of service.
After Brentford stunned Manchester City, Thomas Frank offered the blueprint for stopping Erling Haaland.
Ivan Toney scored twice, including the game-winning goal in the 98th minute, but Frank praised his back three for limiting 18-goal Haaland to one shot at the Etihad Stadium.
The key, according to Frank, was not focusing on the Norwegian international, but rather on cutting off the supply into him from midfield.
‘I really hoped they played Haaland because beating them with Haaland in the lineup is only a really big win,’ Frank said.
‘We had a game plan, and it worked perfectly.’ We tried to keep an eye on [Kevin] De Bruyne, who had very few balls in dangerous areas.
‘We were very aware of Haaland in the box and I think we only missed him once when he ran past Ben Mee – the entire team did fantastically well, but especially the three center backs.’ Our performance was outstanding.’
Frank described the three points as the most important in Brentford’s history, as it was City’s first home defeat in all competitions since losing to Tottenham.
‘This could be the best result in the club’s history,’ Frank added. ‘It’s enormous. I’m overjoyed that we’ve created another incredible magical moment for the fans.
‘They had more possession and shots, but it was deserved.’ Against the best team in the world, we are the bus stop in Hounslow.
‘I know they had a hold on us. However, you sensed an opportunity. I’m overjoyed and relieved that we made it.’