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The Art of the Unconventional: Brentford’s Mastery in Set Pieces

Brentford Community Stadium, London, UK. 22nd May, 2022. Premier League football, Brentford versus Leeds; Brentford Tactical Statistician Bernardo Cueva shouting instructions to the Brentford players from the touchline Credit: Action Plus Sports/Alamy Live News
© Alamy / Action Plus Sports Images

Brentford’s innovative set-piece strategies have made them a standout in the Premier League. Key figures like Bernardo Cueva and Keith Andrews have been pivotal in their success. The club’s data-driven approach under owner Matthew Benham has played a crucial role.

  • Brentford has scored 43 goals from set-piece situations since August 2021.
  • Bernardo Cueva and Keith Andrews have been key figures in their set-piece success.
  • Brentford’s data-driven approach is led by owner Matthew Benham.

Brentford’s Innovative Set Piece Strategies

Brentford has captivated football enthusiasts with their inventive approach to set pieces, becoming one of the most effective teams in the Premier League in this regard. Since August 2021, they have netted an impressive 43 goals from set-piece situations. This achievement is a testament to their strategic planning and execution, with a remarkable expected goals (xG) rate of 5.3 per 100 set pieces. The only team surpassing them in this metric is Everton, showcasing the competitive landscape of set-piece efficiency in the league.

The key to Brentford’s success lies in their innovative routines and the contributions of tactical experts like Bernardo Cueva. Cueva, who joined Brentford in 2020, significantly influenced their set-piece strategies before moving to Chelsea. His role has been succeeded by Keith Andrews, a former Republic of Ireland player, who continues to build upon the foundation laid by his predecessor.


Key Personalities Behind Brentford’s Success

The strategic brilliance of Brentford’s set pieces can be attributed to several key figures. Bernardo Cueva, previously a tactical statistician at Brentford, played a crucial role in their set-piece achievements. His expertise, honed through experiences with Chivas and international teams like Norway and Mexico, was instrumental in creating inventive routines that have consistently troubled opponents. Now at Chelsea, Cueva’s influence endures through the groundwork he laid at Brentford.

Keith Andrews, appointed as Brentford’s Set Piece Coach, is expected to further elevate their set-piece tactics. With a background that includes coaching roles in Sheffield United and a playing career with the Republic of Ireland, Andrews brings a wealth of experience and fresh perspectives to the team. His efforts are supported by the club’s commitment to data-driven insights, pioneered by owner Matthew Benham since his acquisition of the club in 2012.

Impact on the Premier League’s Tactical Landscape

Brentford’s emphasis on set pieces not only distinguishes them in the Premier League but also highlights the broader tactical evolution within football. The club’s success has inspired other teams to rethink their approaches, as seen with Chelsea’s hiring of Bernardo Cueva and Everton’s comparable set-piece proficiency. Brentford’s ability to adapt and thrive amidst these dynamics underscores their strategic acumen.

In matches against prominent clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea, Brentford’s innovative set-piece routines have often caught opponents off guard. For example, a cleverly orchestrated corner against Arsenal created confusion around the goalkeeper, allowing Ivan Toney to capitalize with a header. Similarly, a throw-in routine against Chelsea led to a goal by Ethan Pinnock, exemplifying their meticulous planning and execution.

For more insights into Brentford’s tactical approaches, visit Brentford’s Premier League page. Additionally, explore the tactical expertise transfer with Chelsea here, and the competitive environment with Everton’s set-piece strategies here.

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