5 key points from Real Madrid's FIFA Club World Cup win

Gremio v Real Madrid: Final - FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2017
Real Madrid beat Gremio to lift the 2017 FIFA Club World Cup in UAE

#2 Ronaldo and Benzema Dropping to Midfield

Gremio v Real Madrid: Final - FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2017
Will we see Cristiano Ronaldo play in a false 9 capacity in the future?

Last season, we saw an interesting chain-like movement along Real Madrid's frontline: Cristiano Ronaldo would get into the box, Karim Benzema would drop next to Isco, Luka Modric and Toni Kroos used to move up in their respective half-space, and Dani Carvajal, along with Marcelo used to push up to become attacking wingers.

The result would be an overwhelming attacking display that would leave the opponent breathless and exhausted.

During the Club World Cup, Ronaldo was seen dropping next to Benzema leaving the penalty box unoccupied. This tactic can work if the midfielders were tasked with making runs behind the opposing defenders. However, this wasn't the case against Gremio, resulting in stagnant possession phases from Zidane's men.

Ronaldo is the world's best striker at the moment, with an eye for goal that is unmatched all over the world. Maybe Zidane was testing the False 9 tactic with him, taking advantage of the Portuguese's speed and football IQ.

With few necessary tweaks, this plan might just propel Real Madrid towards even more success.

Quick Links

Edited by Aakanksh Sanketh
Sportskeeda logo
Close menu
WWE
WWE
NBA
NBA
NFL
NFL
MMA
MMA
Tennis
Tennis
NHL
NHL
Golf
Golf
MLB
MLB
Soccer
Soccer
F1
F1
WNBA
WNBA
More
More
bell-icon Manage notifications