Three takeaways from Real Madrid’s FIFA Club World Cup Final victory
By Hasan Karim
Is it time to trust Gareth Bale?
Gareth Bale is also a divisive figure amongst Madridistas.
Despite strong showings this season, his persistent injury troubles have made for frustrations to grow with the Welshman. However, he scored the game-winning goal against Al Jazira and when he came on for Benzema against Grêmio, his influence was immediately apparent. He made numerous marauding runs at the Brazilian backline and almost popped a goal in with a beautiful outside of the boot attempt which was tipped just over.
His constant pressure and direct play caused more problems for the opposing team than Benzema did arguably all game.
Bale has scored or assisted 6 goals in 7 finals so far for Real Madrid. Big game playa! pic.twitter.com/AaocqndaJM
— M•A•J (@UltraSuristic_) December 16, 2017
With numerous strong cameo appearances, Bale is certainly staking a claim for a starting spot in the Clasico. The Welshman has a quality that cannot be denied and he certainly can be a decider in games. With the poor form of Benzema considered, should Bale take his place in the starting XI?
The forward has certainly shown he is ready and he has the desire to help push the team into the what is now the business end of the season. However, we’ve been here before when it comes to Bale – a strong few showings before ultimately being hampered by his fitness woes; is this another one of those occasions?
Only time will tell but its certainly time to trust the Welshman given that he could be the boost the team needs.
Bale strides from his own half after a quick 1-2 with Kroos.. Surges forward into Gremio's box... Quick feet to evade a defender and lay it off for Modric whose shot goes all the way to Paris & lands on France Football for not putting him on the Ballon d'Or podium.
— M•A•J (@UltraSuristic_) December 16, 2017
Next: Real Madrid 1 – Grêmio 0: Quick recap of the FIFA Club World Cup Final