Rodrygo Goes and Fede Valverde were on the scoresheet as Real Madrid stretched their winning run to nine consecutive games since the start of the season by dismantling Atletico Madrid in the Madrid Derby. Real Madrid displayed a first-half brilliance ending it with two goals. Even though Los Blancos soaked up the pressure in the second-half, they did just about enough to secure the three points despite Hermoso’s header.
Here we look at how the Real Madrid players fared during the hotly contested Madrid Derby:
Thibaut Courtois —6: Was responsible for a few nervy moments due to his passing woes. Came out of the box without analysing the situation leading to the headed goal from Hermoso.
Dani Carvajal —8.5: A memorable match for the Spaniard as he literally sent Griezmann to take a nap mid-game (sarcasm). Was one of the fastest players on the pitch and showcased his skill with a 100 per cent dribble success rate. Won two of his attempted tackles to cap off a sensational day.
Eder Militao —8.5: Synced well in defence to keep away the likes of Griezmann and Joao Felix. Used his stature and pace effectively at times when Atleti managed to set up a passing sequence. Managed to put incisive long balls for Vini and Rodrygo.
David Alaba —6.5: His defensive partner Militao did the job for him last night. Managed 3 interceptions.
Ferland Mendy —7: Reliable in the back where he kept the Atleti front quiet. Was effective in bringing the ball from the back and overlapping with Vini. His ‘Zidanesque’ skills in nervy moments are one to cherish for.
Luka Modric —8: Vini and Rodrygo might have danced while celebrating a goal but the dance performed by Luka and his partner Kroos in the midfield was a memorable one. Had a pass success rate of 92% and maintained a 100% record when sending in long balls.
Aurelien Tchouameni —8.5: The Frenchman has hardly put a foot wrong since he signed for Real. It was another exemplary display from him as he orchestrated Rodrygo’s goal by sending in a well-weighted chip into the box before the score went 1-0.
Toni Kroos —8: Orchestrated the momentum of the game. The midfield duo of Modric and Kroos was crucial in pressing and breaking the Atleti pressure through their exemplary passing sequence.
Fede Valverde —9: The Uruguayan maestro was on point to score home the rebound off the post from Vinicius’ effort. Was quick to track back and support the team in defence while carrying the ball effectively.
Vinicius Jr. —7.5: Had a wonderful first half as he created the second goal and also danced in front of the heated Atleti crowd with Rodrygo. Went in a little into his shell in the second as the team started to soak up pressure and hit Atleti on the counter.
Rodrygo —8.5: Latched onto the chipped pass from Tchouameni perfectly and scored with a one-touch finish. Earned him the match of the match for his tremendous efforts.
Substitutions
Antonio Rudiger —6: Made one crucial interception. Coped well in an unusual left-back role.
Eduardo Camavinga —7: Effectively carried the ball and acted as a tank to run down the clock. Reminds us of a certain someone.
Dani Ceballos and Marco Asensio came late on and couldn’t make a significant impact on the game.
