Real Madrid left it to the dying moments of the game to seal the three points in a hard-fought battle against bottom-placed, Huesca at the Spanish capital. Karim Benzema scored the third goal in the 89th minute which turned out to be the decisive and winning strike.
Surprisingly, Huesca took the lead in the third minute against the run of play. The Whites then bounced back in the 25th minute courtesy of Isco who was on the end of a brilliant link-up play between Karim Benzema and winter signing, Brahim Diaz. It seemed like a game completely dominated by Madrid, only for them to be let down by their defensive performance on two occasions and it nearly cost them two points.
One of the major highlights of the game was Karim Benzema. The Frenchman seemed right on top of his game throughout. He completely traumatised the Huesca defence in the course of the ninety minutes with daunting runs around the Huesca penalty area.
The Madridistas would be buzzing with this victory not because it was an outstanding performance, but sheerly because it seemed like a trip down the memory lane. A frequent sighting from Zidane’s first stint as a manager was the Whites’ abilities to pull off victories or draws in the dying minutes of the game. As to how they call it in the Santiago Bernabeu, “Hasta el final, Vamos Real” or “Until the last minute, until the last match of the championship”, the team truly showed the never give up attitude on this evening, something which had been lacking for a considerable period.
Here’s how Real Madrid fared in their victory against Huesca.
Luca Zidane – 6/10
The goalie looked a bit out of sorts, but can not be blamed for it as it was his first start in the La Liga this season. He seems to be lacking game time. However, he showed his quick thinking and reflexes on several occasions.
Alvaro Odriozola – 6/10
Had a decent evening, was a constant threat down the right flank of Madrid.
Nacho Fernandez – 6/10
Lived up to his image of being a full-hearted Madridista once again. Performed when given a chance, no wonder Nacho is a popular face at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Sergio Ramos – 6/10
Was up for the task and put in a good shift. Deserved victory on his birthday weekend, probably would have been a better night if Ramos scored the 89th-minute goal.
Marcelo – 6/10
Seems to be getting back to his best since the return of Zidane. Solari did not seem to trust him, and that certainly played a role in his downfall.
Isco Alarcon – 8/10
That’s the piece of spark Real Madrid seemed to be miss throughout the season. He has been absolutely amazing to watch since his return.
Marcos Llorente – 6.5/10
Real Madrid need not worry in case Casemiro is absent as Llorente is a perfect back-up for Casemiro. He seemed really calm and composed on the ball today.
Dani Ceballos – 7.5/10
With a goal to his credit and a couple of amazing runs, Ceballos is slowly and steadily justifying the trust Real Madrid put in him when they purchased him from Real Betis.
Gareth Bale – 7/10
Produced a gem of a pass from the outside of his left foot which eventually led to Real’s second goal.
Karim Benzema – 9/10
What a night from the French attacker. Deserved the man of the match award for his assist and goal, not to forget his efforts that led to the first goal.
Brahim Diaz – 7/10
Showed his potential when he did a quick one-two with Benzema in the build-up to the first goal. He’s certainly going to be one for the future for Real Madrid.
Substitutes
Federico Valverde – 6/10
Did not have much to offer since coming on for Isco.
Lucas Vasquez – 6/10
Seemed lively after coming on but did not have much impact on the game.
Mariano Diaz – 7/10
Got a good 15 minute run in the game and seemed to make the most of it. Even troubled Huesca goalie, Santamaria on a handful of occasions.
