Valencia got the better of Real Madrid at the Mestalla Stadium on Matchday 30 of La Liga Santander. Valencia scored through Goncalo Guedes and Ezequiel Garay before Karim Benzema halved the deficit in the closing moments of the game. The game ended 2-1 in favour of Valencia.
Zidane’s third game as Real Madrid manager for his second stint did not end well. The French manager would have expected a more spirited performance from his side, but Los Blancos never really got going in this game. It’s a learning experience for Zidane as he now knows where his team is lacking. The areas of concern can be addressed during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Despite having the majority share of possession throughout the entire game, Real Madrid failed to test Valencia goalie Neto much. Team selection seemed a bit shaky to start with as Zidane chose Lucas Vasquez over Gareth Bale. Similarly, Asensio was slotted in for Isco, who was magical in Real Madrid’s win against Huesca.
Well, what’s done is done, it’s crucial for Sergio Ramos & Co. to focus on the remaining eight games left in the season with the mindset of beginning the 2019/20 season on a positive note.
Here’s how Los Blancos fared in their 1-2 defeat against Valencia.
Keylor Navas – 6/10
An average night for the Costa Rican keeper. Could have done better for Valencia’s first goal, as he seemed to be marking the wrong post.
Alvaro Odriozola – 7/10
A spirited performance from the ex-Real Sociedad man. Will need to work on his final ball if he plans to pip Carvajal to being the first choice right back.
Raphael Varane – 7/10
A strong performance from Varane. Was absolutely rock-solid throughout the game.
Sergio Ramos – 6/10
Age seems to be catching up on Ramos. The Real Madrid captain did not seem to be concerned about blocking down Guedes’ shot which ultimately found the back of the net in the first half.
Marcelo – 7/10
The Brazilian was energetic right throughout the game but could have done better with his defensive positioning.
Luka Modric – 6/10
A poor night for the Croatian. Seemed to be too sloppy on the ball and was even dispossessed on several occasions.
Casemiro – 6/10
The Brazilian seemed a bit exhausted for a large part of the game. Probably not enough rest following the International Break.
Toni Kroos – 6/10
Kroos did not seem to have the same passing accuracy as always and it did not turn out to be a pleasant evening for his team and himself.
Lucas Vasquez – 7/10
The Spaniard showed some neat footwork on a handful of occasions. He seemed to be a constant threat to the Valencia defence with his surprise element.
Karim Benzema – 9/10
Majorly involved in play throughout the game. The one Madrid player that really stood out from the rest of the lot. His efforts were well paid off in the 93rd minute with a goal from a corner.
Marco Asensio – 6/10
Did not seem to make the most of the opportunity given by Zinedine Zidane. Should have shown more enthusiasm and energy down the left flank.
Substitutes
Isco Alarcon – 5/10
Did not have much involvement post coming on.
Gareth Bale – 6/10
The Welshman put in a few dangerous balls into the Valencia penalty box after coming on.
Mariano Diaz – 6/10
The ex-Lyon striker needs to make most of the opportunities at his disposal. It’s hard to recall when he last got on the score-sheet.
