Soccer fans are awaiting a mouth-watering clash between Al Nassr and Al Ittihad. Cristiano Ronaldo & Co are entering this match in top form while Karim Benzema-led Al Ittihad has not been at their best recently. However, they are the defending champions after all, and it would be foolish to count them out. Luis Castro seems to have his tactics in place and has reportedly excluded some players from his match-day squad in a ‘strategic move.’ What could the Portuguese tactician be planning?

A key aspect of this high-voltage clash is that Ronaldo will be up against his former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema. The winner of this duel will likely have a huge impact on which side emerges victorious in the league.

Is Luis Castro opting for a new strategy?

As per the latest reports, the Al Nassr boss will not be counting on three players for the crucial encounter. They are the Saudi Arabian trio of Khaled Al-Ghanem & Abdullah Mado & Nawaf Bushel. Interestingly both Mado and Bushel are defenders. Therefore, it looks like Castro is planning an all-guns-blazing attacking approach against the reigning champions. However, could this strategy provide the desired results?

Although Al Ittihad are not having a great campaign, they are an elite defensive unit. With just 21 goals conceded in 17 games, they are proving hard to score against. However, despite the signing of Karim Benzema, their attack has misfired with just 32 goals, compared to the 46 by Al Nassr players. Hence, Castro will be focusing on hitting Al Ittihad at their weak points.

Besides with the big names taking part, the game could have a significant impact in the title race. A win for Al Alami would see them close the gap with Al Hilal to just 7 points. Hence, a victory is essential for Luis Castro, who is even willing to adapt his entire team strategy for the result. This also includes modifications in Cristiano Ronaldo’s role.

Castro’s demand to Cristiano Ronaldo

Castro has made a crucial demand to Cristiano Ronaldo & Co. A relentless commitment to high pressing. In such an approach, the players pressurize the opponents into making mistakes and surrender the ball possession. Crucially, the press starts from the attacking players which include the likes of Ronaldo and Sadio Mane.

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However, high-pressing has never been one of CR7’s strengths. Throughout his career, it was his strike partners who did the pressing. At Real Madrid, that player was interestingly, Benzema. Hence, it seems Castro wants the Portuguese superstar to emulate his former partner on the night. Only time will tell if the plan gives the desired results.

Which side will emerge victorious? Let us know in the comments below.

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