First of all i also applaud the effort and time take to analyze the game in this way,
there are several valid points mentioned here, in the case of Real Madrid you have to remember they are a world class team so beating them is going to be much harder anyway, in saying that set a striker or both to poacher assuming they have the pace and go route one pass in to space and the defenders will pop the ball over the top for players to run on to or your wide players.
I am shocked that there has been no mention as to tactical familiarity, persistently tweaking tactics during the game is a dangerous way to play if you are doing it several times in every match.
training on all three tactics slots with a tactic for stronger, weaker and similar teams and swapping these tactics to adjust for the game would probably be more effective as at the very least your players will trained to play in these styles.
the pre game discussion tells your players that you want them to focus on selected areas or styles of play which sets a base foundation for the team. with no instructions on how to play your effectivly telling the players to please themselves what they do, they settle in to their own little pocket and mentality relative to their idividual style of play.
this method is very easy for the A.I. to pick up on and counter as your base tactic remain constant.
Also when selecting a team in the beginning be realistic in your approach and your expectations, is it avoid relegation, mid table etc. and work on improving over time.
but i definately think you would benefit from having 2 or 3 set tactics that only need slight tweaks as apposed to micro managing every detail, your assistant can help with this.
set the OI's to automatic at th beginning of game.
if the AM tells you losing possession your opponent is high pressing so look to go over the top.
if he tells you to cross more the opponent is sitting back so exploit the flanks and clear to flanks while retaining possession and not pass to space.
obiously these are guidelines and dont have to but in general are a good base point.
against larger teams particularly away from home dont be afraid to play for draw 1 point is still 1 more than nothing and will keep moral higher and improve the dynamics of the team.