Let's assume that there was no issue with the formation and let's focus on the orders. I've noticed that weaker opponents tend to dominate stronger teams when they set team mentality to defensive.
I've been in a situation where I had over 15% quality advantage and got only about 4 animation highlights throughout the match while my defensive opponent completely dominated and I lost 2-0 after winning the first 30ish games of the season.
With what you described I feel you were a victim to thesame thing. You might find this thread helpful.
https://forum.topeleven.com/top-elev...ve-tactic.html