Champions League 2019-20: 5 talking points from Napoli's 2-0 win over Liverpool

#4 Ancelotti’s tactics on point

Carlo Ancelotti showed why he is one of the best managers of all time

It is safe to say that Carlo Ancelotti has plenty of experience in European football with three Champions League titles under his belt. This match was his 161st Champions League game in charge, only behind Arsene Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson.

Ancelotti set up his team in a 4-4-2 formation, with Dries Mertens and Hirving Lozano as the centre-forwards providing a threat in the box. Jose Callejon and Lorenzo Insigne were given freedom out wide, either by roaming inside or hugging the widths to deliver a cross.

Fabian Ruiz was the creative force while Allan provided steel in midfield. Mario Rui was the attacking full back providing crosses into the box while Giovanni di Lorenzo was the third man behind in defence. Koulibaly was a rock in defence alongside his partner Kostas Manolas.

The team was fluid, as it started from a 4-4-2 while defending. Liverpool were unable to break down this rigid structure.

When Napoli won the ball, they attacked quickly, playing one-touch passes between players. The formation then changed to a 4-2-4, which was much more direct and aggressive.

This drive paid dividends as the hosts picked up on Liverpool errors and scored goals within 10 minutes towards the end of the match. Without a doubt, this was a masterclass from Ancelotti.