yahudi
New member
Suarez was pretty good off the ball. Created crucial space during both goals.
Exactly. Both times Suarez drags the defenders with him, leavin Rakitic unmarked.
More than that, Suarez does something Barcelona has been missing since Eto'o: attacking the near post on crosses. Ever since Messi moved to false 9, most flank attacks ended in cutbacks to the penalty spot or tap-ins at the far post. Both methods are difficult to pull through against organized defenses. However, if you have another striker attacking the near post, you offer another pass option and bring confusion into an otherwise organized defensive structure.
Re-watch the Suarez goal against Rayo. He tells Munir to attack the area in front of the goalkeeper, thus dragging the defender out of position and leaving Suarez alone. Against Bate, Suarez does the same run and drags the entire defense to leave Rakitic's late run unmarked.