It was a rather simple practice, but what was catching theattention of the spectators in Bayer Leverkusen practice at the Omni Orlando Resort, in Champions Gate, was the high pace demanded to the players. Coach Roger Schmidt made it clear that playing in a fast tempo is the team’s strategy for the Florida Cup’s debut against Estudiantes de La Plata next Sunday.
The manager was constantly interrupting the practice to require a faster execution of the plays. Other reiterated instruction from Schmidt was for the team to use the sides of the field for quick transitions from defense to attack.
According to the midfielder Karim Bellarabi, one of the players with the responsibility to conduct the team’s offense, it was a rough practice but with great results.
“It was really hard work – even when it was just running. But you’re pushed right to the limit in the lactate tests and it can be tough. But everything went well and it was fun.” said the player on the club’s official website.
(Fotos: Rodrigo Calvozzo / Goal Brasil)
In order to win in Sunday’s match, Estudiantes de La Plata will have the tough task of stopping the quick transition from the German team and to maintain an always well-organized defense in order to not be surprised by Bayer’s speedy attack.
