Real Madrid are currently on cloud nine after re-establishing their four-point cushion on top of the points table after a professional display against Deportivo Alaves. Karim Benzema and Marco Asensio scored goals in each half as Zidane’s side won 2-0 at home.
VAR was called into action for both of Real Madrid’s goals. Ferland Mendy was tipped and fouled inside the box, and Benzema fired the subsequent penalty past Roberto. Marco Asensio then scored a tap-in after being set up by Karim Benzema un-marked on the far post.
The visitors, Alaves, did make things a bit nervy for Zidane & Co. in the opening few exchanges but failed to establish themselves in the game post that. After making a change in their managerial hierarchy last weekend, Alaves only managed to have 29% ball possession throughout the game.
Real Madrid not only held onto another clean-sheet but also won their eight-game on the bounce. The side from the Spanish capital only needs to earn 5 points from the three remaining fixtures to clinch the La Liga Santander title for the 34th time in their illustrious history. Here’s how Los Blancos were rated in their convincing victory against Alaves.
Real Madrid Players Rated In Win Over Deportivo Alaves
Thibaut Courtois – 8/10
Another neat and tidy performance from Courtois who held onto another clean sheet at the Alfredo de Stefano stadium.
Lucas Vasquez – 7/10
Satisfactory performance from Vasquez on his return to the starting eleven. He started at the right-back position, which is not his natural position.
Eder Militao – 8/10
Another impressive performance from Militao on the bounce. The Brazilian was rock-solid in defence.
Raphael Varane – 8/10
Varane was a dominating presence in the Madrid defence. Zidane would be pleased with the work rate shown by Varane during the duration of the game.
Ferland Mendy – 9/10
Ferland Mendy was right on top of his game and deservedly earned the Man of the Match award. The Frenchman’s defensive approach to the game along with calculated runs up the pitch are some of the best traits that he adds to this Real Madrid side.
Luka Modric – 8/10
Modric displayed his game controlling abilities throughout the night. There is no denying that Modric has majorly stepped up his game post the lockdown. The Croatian magician is now an integral part of this Real Madrid midfield.
Casemiro – 8/10
The Brazilian midfielder displayed another tireless performance.
Toni Kroos – 8/10
An incredibly assuring and convincing performance from Kroos who was cool as ice in the centre of the park.
Marco Asensio – 8/10
Asensio showed fantastic work ethics with an industrious performance and was rewarded for his efforts with a goal set up by Karim Benzema.
Karim Benzema – 9/10
One goal and an assist, Karim Benzema delivered when it mattered the most for Los Blancos. Leading the side today, he led by example as he tucked away a penalty won by Ferland Mendy in the opening minutes of the game.
Rodrygo – 8/10
A lively and energetic performance from Rodrygo who showcased some splendid dribbling abilities. He would be gutted that he could not put the ball past Deportivo Alaves’ goalie, Roberto.
Substitutes –
Vinicius Junior – 7/10
Satisfactory evening from Vinicius, but a lot more was expected of him.
Federico Valverde – 7/10
Valverde was introduced around the 70-minute mark and kept things under check in midfield.
Eden Hazard – 6/10
Hazard did not have a significant contribution to the game.
Isco – NA
Isco came on during the dying moments of the game and ended up testing the goalie with a curling effort.
Brahim Diaz – NA
The young Spaniard did not have enough minutes to leave an impact after being subbed-on during stoppage time.