Real Madrid Adapts to Xabi Alonso‘s Tactics After Club World Cup Draw
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miami – real madrid is undergoing a tactical shift as they adapt to the possession-based style of new coach Xabi Alonso. This transition was evident in their recent 1-1 draw against Al Hilal in their Club World Cup 2025 debut [1]. The match, held at Hard Rock Stadium, saw Gonzalo Garcia score for Madrid in the 34th minute, only for Ruben Neves to equalize with a penalty in the 41st minute.
Courtois Highlights Adaptation Challenges
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois acknowledged the team’s ongoing adjustment. “After 4 years with Ancelotti, we learned some habits that were arduous to change in 4 days,” Courtois stated, referencing former coach Carlo Ancelotti‘s more direct approach. He emphasized the need for patience as the team integrates Alonso’s tactics, which prioritize maintaining ball possession.
Did You Know? Xabi Alonso’s coaching career began with Real Sociedad B before taking on the challenge at Real madrid.
Tactical Shift Under Alonso
the shift to Alonso’s style marks a significant departure from the previous era under Ancelotti. While Ancelotti favored a direct, counter-attacking approach, alonso emphasizes control and patience in possession. this requires players to develop new habits and strategies on the field.
“Xabi wants a different way to survive and attack. We watch a lot of videos and discuss. We will learn from this match. We must be more patient. We must start maintaining ball possession and stopping in a hurry,” Courtois added.
Pro Tip: Watch professional matches and analyze how teams maintain possession to understand the nuances of Alonso’s tactical approach.
Match Summary: real Madrid vs. Al hilal
| Team | Goals | Minute |
|---|---|---|
| Real madrid | Gonzalo Garcia | 34′ |
| Al Hilal | Ruben Neves (Penalty) | 41′ |
Looking Ahead
The team is actively working to integrate Alonso’s vision through video analysis and discussions. the focus is on developing the patience and ball retention skills necessary to execute the new tactics effectively. The draw against Al Hilal serves as a valuable learning experience as they continue to evolve under Alonso’s leadership.
The transition period is expected to take time, but the team is committed to mastering Alonso’s approach and achieving success in future competitions. the Club World Cup 2025 provides a crucial platform for Real Madrid to refine their new style and build towards long-term goals.
Evergreen Insights: The Evolution of soccer Tactics
Soccer tactics have continually evolved, influenced by legendary coaches and changing player skill sets. From the early emphasis on direct attacks to the modern focus on possession and pressing, the game’s strategic landscape is always in flux. Coaches like Xabi Alonso bring fresh perspectives, adapting established principles to create unique and effective systems.
FAQ About Real Madrid’s Tactical Change
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Q: Why is Real Madrid adapting to a new playing style?
A: Real Madrid is adapting to a new playing style because of the arrival of new coach Xabi Alonso, whose tactics differ from those of his predecessor, Carlo Ancelotti.
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Q: What is Xabi Alonso’s preferred playing style?
A: Xabi Alonso’s preferred playing style is based on ball possession, a contrast to Carlo Ancelotti’s more direct approach.
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Q: How long did Carlo Ancelotti coach Real Madrid before Xabi Alonso?
A: Carlo Ancelotti coached Real Madrid for four seasons before Xabi Alonso took over.
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Q: What did Thibaut Courtois say about Real Madrid’s adaptation?
A: Thibaut Courtois acknowledged that Real Madrid is still adapting to Xabi Alonso’s style, as the team is accustomed to Carlo Ancelotti’s tactics after four seasons.
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Q: What was the result of Real Madrid’s match against Al Hilal?
A: Real Madrid drew 1-1 against Al Hilal in their Club World Cup 2025 match.
What are your thoughts on real Madrid’s transition to a possession-based style? How long do you think it will take for them to fully adapt?
Share your predictions and comments below!