False nines? 4-4-2? The tactical trends defining World Cup so far

The beauty of the World Cup is the variety of unique styles and players competing against each other on the biggest stage.

Sometimes this poses unusual tactical challenges that require on-the-fly solutions.

Alternatively, with the popularity and influence of the Premier League and Champions League, we also see nations borrow ideas from club football when the World Cup comes around every four years.

Twelve games in and common patterns, trends and match-ups are already emerging. Here are five that have stood out so far.

Wirtz, Isak & Diomande shine at World Cup as Iraola plots Liverpool revival

Football tactics are continually being developed and analysed in an increasingly detailed manner so it is interesting, and fun, to see the 4-4-2 become so commonly used at this World Cup.

Premier League football of the early 2000s was typified by the 4-4-2 formation. Spaces between players were bigger with fewer low blocks and less drilled high presses seen.

This led to more time and space for attackers to express themselves.