Football, much like life, occasionally throws up results that defy expectation. The recent Club World Cup semi-final clash between Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain provided just such a moment. For Kylian Mbappe, facing his former club for the first time since a high-profile summer move, the script did not follow the anticipated blockbuster narrative. Instead, Real Madrid suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat, and Mbappe, making his first start after recovering from illness, found himself unusually isolated.
His statistics from the match paint a clear picture of his limited impact: a mere 27 touches over the entire game, resulting in just four shots, only one of which troubled the goalkeeper. Vinicius Jr. faced a similar challenge, registering only 21 touches. This striking lack of involvement was not a consequence of poor form from the players themselves, but rather a direct outcome of the tactical setup employed by manager Xabi Alonso.
Forced to adapt due to key absences, including a suspension for Dean Huijsen and an injury to Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alonso deployed a traditional 4-4-2 formation. While effective against lesser opposition, this rigid structure proved easily contained by a top-tier side like PSG. It lacked the fluidity and attacking thrust that had characterized Real Madrid`s more successful outings earlier in the tournament.
The Tactical Blueprint for Success
Real Madrid`s journey to the semi-finals had been built on a different foundation: a hybrid 4-4-2 diamond or, more notably, a 3-5-2 system. These formations allowed the fullbacks, particularly Francisco Garcia and Alexander-Arnold when fit, to operate with significant attacking license. Supported by a defensive anchor like Aurelien Tchouameni, this setup turned defense into attack seamlessly, creating numerous opportunities for the forwards. It was a tactical breath of fresh air that mirrored Alonso`s successful approach at Bayer Leverkusen, and it had even revitalized players like Francisco Garcia, who seemed on the fringes before this tournament.
The return to a conventional back four against PSG exposed the limitations when attacking creativity is stifled from the wide areas. The build-up play became predictable and stale. However, the good news for Madrid is that this tactical detour may be temporary. The match against PSG saw the return of Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao, both crucial figures who missed the end of last season through injury. Their reintegration will provide more defensive options, potentially allowing Alonso to revert to the more expansive, successful systems.
Furthermore, with a pool of defenders including Antonio Rudiger, Huijsen, Raul Asencio, and Tchouameni capable of playing at centerback, tactical flexibility is available. Any defensive adjustments could free up more space in advanced areas for Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. While both forwards occupied similar zones at times last season, the key is the *quality* and *volume* of service they receive.
This is where players like Trent Alexander-Arnold become indispensable. His ability to deliver precise, line-splitting passes from deep positions is among the best in the world. The prospect of Alexander-Arnold consistently feeding a player of Mbappe`s caliber is, frankly, mouthwatering for any attacking strategist. Despite not always operating in an ideal system last season, Mbappe still managed a remarkable 43 goals and provided five assists.
The takeaway from the PSG match isn`t that Mbappe struggled fundamentally, but that the system on that particular day, born out of necessity, did not play to his strengths or the team`s attacking potential. With key players returning and the ability to implement their preferred, dynamic tactical approach, the environment will be ripe for Mbappe to thrive. When Real Madrid plays to its strengths, providing the kind of service he needs, hitting and even surpassing the 50-goal mark this season remains not just possible, but highly probable.
Percy Harlow