It was another typical Real Madrid performance on a European night. The Real players were not up to the mark to play good football but did just enough to cross the line by somehow grabbing a win. The two goals they scored saw Madrid take lethal advantage of two moments of slight weakness from Bayern. Real were themselves lucky having had plenty of close shaves but that is what champion teams are made of.
The players are high in confidence now and will be looking forward to the next leg at home having secure two crucial away goals at the Allianz Arena. A 2-1 scoreline seemed hardly fair on the night for Bayern but that is what they have to be content with owing to Madrid’s ability to squeeze out results even when they are performing below par.
This is how the player performed on the night.
Keylor Navas: 7.5
Made a few good saves from Navas but had little impact with his commanding and leadership in the box. He was excellent with his reflexes though and did enough to take care of the Bayern attack.
Dani Carvajal: 7
Had a tough time defending against the magic of Frank Ribery who was untouchable on the night. He did enough though to keep Ribery from scoring. Was taken off with an unfortunate injury however.
Raphael Varane: 7.5
The French centre back had a better day today and was steady in his play with Ramos back by his side. He made a few crucial tackles and interceptions.
Sergio Ramos: 7.5
The captain was on point to lead and shield his defence. He took care of the Lewandowski threat aptly and will be looking to help his team once again at the Bernabeu.
Marcelo: 8
A blinding low piling drive to strike the ball from outside the box into the far corner. Yes, that was the finish from a defender and it was Marcelo on the night.
Toni Kroos: 5.5
Mysteriously subdued against his former team and made a few uncharacteristic errors that are not expected of him.
Luka Modric: 7
Was his usual busy self in the midfield as he kept them ticking.
Casemiro: 7
Once again he was rock solid while sitting back and good with his distribution.
Isco: 6.5
Only played the first half but could not create much.
Lucas Vazquez: 6.5
Got a full game and did well to provide an assist for the second goal.
Cristiano Ronaldo: 6
A poor game by his standards as he was unable to get on the score sheet.
Substitutions
Marco Asensio: 7
A superb finish when let loose on goal to give Madrid the advantage at the end of 90 minutes.
