Also monitor your team talks see how your players react to them. This can be the difference in big games. Also the media coverage in the build up.
try selecting 'the result doesnt matter you just want a good performance' often the players will make that extra effort to prove you wrong and grab the result.
Lastly make sure your captain is a big game player, after all he has influence over the team.
Again these aren't full proof but they are worth looking aty as it can be the difference. | 
