Real Madrid were tested heavily in their league clash against Malaga. Cristiano Ronaldo’s attempt from close range earned all 3 points for Los Blancos after his penalty was saved by Jimenez. Real Madrid had to dig deep to come out with a win as their lead was cancelled out twice by a spirited Malaga performance. Goals from Karim Benzema, Casemiro and Cristiano Ronaldo ensured that Zinedine Zidane’s men kept the pressure on the league leaders. Here are the player ratings of Real Madrid.
Kiko Casilla (2):
Hard to see he gets the nod ahead of Keylor Navas. Played Kroos into trouble for Malaga’s first and spilt Castro’s attempt that eventually gave the visitors their second.
Daniel Carvajal (7):
Was at his usual best with his darting runs forward and sticking to his defensive duties. Clinical on the ball.
Jesús Vallejo (4):
A difficult night for the youngster as his mistakes proved too costly at the back for Madrid.
Raphael Varane (6):
Had to cover up for Vallejo’s frailties and mistakes at the back. Made a notable goal-line clearance. Was aerially very good using his height to good effect.
Marcelo (7):
Finally starting to get back his form as he provided the cross for Madrid’s first. Was an ever-present threat with his overlapping runs on the left flank.
Casemiro (7):
Some brilliant touches in the middle of the park. His inch-perfect header put Madrid 2-1 up. Could have done a better job cleaning up the pieces and helping his defence on the counter.
Lucas Vázquez (6):
Had a bright start to the game but his blistering start soon faded away.
Toni Kroos (6):
A game of two sides for the German. Gave away the ball Malaga’s first whilst bagging an assist and producing a brilliant effort that was saved well by Jimenez.
Isco (5):
Unable to replicate his form with the International side as he had a very quiet game. Hardly had an impact on the game and was rightly removed by Zidane for Modric.
Karim Benzema (7):
A much-improved display by the Frenchman after heavy criticism. Managed to get on the score-sheet following a rebound off Ronaldo’s header from the crossbar.
Cristiano Ronaldo (8):
A brilliant performance from the Portuguese star. Was denied on multiple occasions by Malaga’s shot-stopper who had a great outing. Finally bagged the goal he has been working for after he slotted in following a rebound off his penalty.
Substitutes:
Luka Modrić (7):
Ensured that he controlled matters in the middle and dictated play. Earned a much need penalty that helped Madrid bag the winner.
Borja Mayoral (NA):
Theo Hernandez (NA):
Played very little to earn a rating.
