Real Madrid have returned to pole position in the league table following a commanding 2-0 victory against Mallorca at the Alfredo de Stefano stadium. Vinicius Junior and Sergio Ramos got themselves on the scoresheet as Los Blancos scored one goal in each half.
Zidane’s side took charge of the fixture early in the first half with a sublime finish by Vinicius Junior around the 19-minute mark. Luka Modric orchestrated the move as Vinicius delicately chipped the ball over Mallorca goalie, Reina.
The second goal was another astonishing goal of the night as Sergio Ramos converted from a free-kick in close vicinity to the goal with spectacular pin-point accuracy. The ball went over the wall and curled into the top left corner to earn Ramos his 8th league goal of the season. Yes, Sergio Ramos has scored eight goals for the Whites, and he is the second top scorer in the side behind Karim Benzema.
Real Madrid were thoroughly deserving winners on this occasion, and Zidane will be pleased with the shift his boys put in across the duration of the game. Here’s how Real Madrid players rated in their victory against Mallorca.
Thibaut Courtois – 9/10
The shot-stopper was right on top of his game and was called into action on a couple of occasions. Courtois seemed extremely confident and poised to hold onto another clean sheet this season.
Dani Carvajal – 7/10
The Spaniard was diligent as always and kept things under control down the right flank. Carvajal was always spotted high up the pitch, barely allowing the opposition any time to settle on the ball.
Raphael Varane – 8/10
Varane was an impermeable rock in defence. His speed and agility as a central defender make him a vital part of this Real Madrid side.
Sergio Ramos – 9/10
Once again, Ramos led with example and displayed what a profound leader he is. El Capitan scored a mesmerizing free-kick in the second half. It’s impressive to watch the level of confidence that the defender operates on. Despite the likes of Bale and Benzema on the field of play, Ramos himself took the free-kick.
Ferland Mendy – 7/10
The left-back had a decent evening and earned some brownie points for himself with a strong performance in defence. Mendy is suspended from the next fixture after collecting his fifth yellow card.
Federico Valverde – 8/10
The Uruguayan midfielder was a lively presence in midfield and did not let Casemiro’s absence reflect on Real’s performance. Valverde is destined to play a major role in the Real Madrid sides of the future.
Luka Modric – 8/10
Modric was simply sensational on the night. It’s barely noticeable that the Croatian will be turning 35 in a few months with the way he takes charge of proceedings in the centre of midfield. Vinicius received a stellar pass from Lukita in the build-up to the first goal, which gave Real control of the game early in the tie.
Gareth Bale – 8/10
Gareth Bale had an impressive evening after being summoned to the starting eleven after a substantial period. Not only did the Welshman display his attacking attributes, but he also showed the other side to his game as he dropped deep and defended.
Eden Hazard – 8/10
The Belgian seems to be finally getting into the groove in the Spanish capital. He would be pleased with his performance on the night.
Vinicius Junior – 9/10
Undoubtedly one of the best performers on the night. Vinicius carried forward his form from the last game in San Sebastian back to Madrid. A visible difference in his shooting was also evident as he chipped the ball over the goalie at an acute angle.
Karim Benzema – 7/10
The Frenchman had a rather quiet evening and failed to make it three in three. Nevertheless, it is a widely known fact that Karim Benzema adds much more to Real Madrid than just goals. The striker was energetic and drew a couple of saves out of Reina.
Substitutes
Toni Kroos – 7/10
The German had a quiet evening but ended up in the referee’s book after picking up a yellow card.
Marco Asensio – 7/10
Swift and pacey after coming on and seemed to have an impact on the game.
Isco – 7/10
Isco seemed a bit rusty after playing his first game since his injury.
Mariano – 6/10
Not much involvement in the game post coming on.
Brahim Diaz – 6/10
Not much involvement in the game post coming on.
