After 7 goals scored against Sevilla at Santiago Bernabeu three days before, hopes were high for another display of offensive power. Goal scored by Ronaldo in the 3rd minute made the fans believe that away game against Rayo would prove the amazing potential of the team built by Carlo Ancelotti. What’s more, the first half was in great part dominated by Real Madrid, which was proved by their second goal (Benzema in 31’). And when Ronaldo scored again 4 minutes after the break, probably everyone was expecting the game to end at that point. However, after two well-deserved penalties awarded to Rayo after stupid mistakes from Real Madrid’s defense the home team started to put extreme pressure on the guest players.
It seemed unreal, as within two minutes Viera scored twice and Real Madrid’s offensive potential completely vanished. Team that is trying to win La Liga was desperately trying to defend against the team that’s fighting to evade relegation. The second half showed how much there is to improve when it comes to Madrid’s defensive playing. It was complete chaos, and the only parts that were not disappointing were Diego Lopez and centrebacks’ headers. Except for that, it was mostly luck that allowed Madrid players to keep three points after the final whistle.
When Xabi Alonso was on the pitch, the offensive and defensive parts of the team were mostly well-balanced. However, when he was substituted by Asier Illarramendi the became utter chaos. This young Spanish has still a lot to learn and the gap between him and Alonso has to diminish quickly if Alonso wants to leave Real Madrid next summer. Modrić is a different type of player and it showed, he was more responsible of creating counter-attacks (most of the times ineffective, unfortunately).
Experiment with Angel Di Maria playing behind Benzema was unsuccessful. He seemed lost and definitely he would be of better use on the right wing where he usually plays. The offensive trio - Cristiano Ronaldo (2 goals), Karim Benzema (1 goal) and Gareth Bale (2 assists) - didn’t disappoint, but they could’ve played better in the second half when the team needed some break from Rayo’s constant attacks.
Rayo Vallecano – Real Madryt 2:3 (0:2)
0:1 Cristiano Ronaldo 3'
0:2 Benzema 31'
0:3 Cristiano Ronaldo 49'
1:3 Viera 53'
2:3 Viera 55'
No comments:
Post a Comment