DISCUSSION: How Draining Is It To Play Against Xabi-Ball?

Real Madrid CF v Juventus FC: Round Of 16 - FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Photo by Michael Regan – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

Managing Madrid have been on the ground all week — and will continue to be — at the Club World Cup, following Real Madrid around the USA as they aim to crown themselves Champions.

With each passing game, Real Madrid have looked better, which is a good omen heading into tonight’s quarter-final clash against Borussia Dortmund.

Against Juventus, Real Madrid struggled to find openings, but eventually they broke through. After the match, Fede Valverde explained how Xabi Alonso’s tactics work to drain opponents.

“Xabi’s message was the same as always,” Valverde said. “To have control of the ball and when we lose it, recover it quickly to attack again quickly. That’s how rivals wear themselves down mentally.”

Here’s Kiyan Sobhani’s take on Xabi-ball:

What do you think? Let us know your thoughts on the above video.

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