On May 2, 2009, Pep Guardiola made a tactical masterstroke that would become a defining moment in modern football. Facing Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu, Guardiola deployed Lionel Messi in the "false 9" position for the first time. Instead of playing as a traditional striker, Messi was positioned deeper, allowing him to drop into midfield and exploit the spaces between Real Madrid's defense and midfield. This unexpected move created havoc for Real Madrid, as Messi's freedom to roam and link up play rendered their defensive plans ineffective.

Messi's new role was pivotal in Barcelona's stunning 62 victory. He scored twice and was involved in nearly every attacking move, showcasing his extraordinary vision, dribbling, and playmaking abilities. The "false 9" tactic not only maximized Messi's talents but also allowed other players like Thierry Henry and Samuel Eto'o to find more space and opportunities. This tactical innovation not only led to a historic win but also revolutionized football strategies worldwide, cementing Messi's place as one of the game's greatest and highlighting Guardiola's genius as a manager.