Real Madrid travelled to Atalanta’s Gewiss Stadium on Tuesday to play the sixth round of the Champions League group stage. After an intense game, Carlo Ancelotti’s team secured a 3-2 victory. Here are the player ratings for the Madrid squad.
It was one of the standout fixtures of the day. Following their defeat at Liverpool in late November, Real Madrid needed to win against Atalanta Bergamo, who were fifth in the standings before this match. Fielding a line-up with several changes, Carlo Ancelotti’s team started the match in full force, with a fiery Kylian Mbappé opening the scoring in the 10th minute. Unfortunately, the French striker was later injured, leaving his team struggling to maintain possession after the first 20 minutes.
Eventually, Real Madrid were pegged back just before halftime through a penalty conceded by Aurélien Tchouaméni. However, they returned in the second half to display their trademark resilience. Despite the home side’s possession and dangerous chances, it was Madrid who struck twice through Vinicius Junior (56′) and Jude Bellingham (59′). Ademola Lookman managed to reduce the deficit, but no further goals were scored until the final whistle.
Here are the Madrid player ratings
Thibaut Courtois (7)
A solid performance from the Madrid goalkeeper. Seldom tested in the first half apart from the penalty goal, Courtois was pivotal in the second half. He pulled off a stunning save from a dangerous Lookman shot around the 54th minute, stretching his full 1.99m to deny the goal. Shortly after this crucial intervention, Madrid scored twice. The Belgian delivered when it mattered, making multiple saves in the latter stages.
Antonio Rudiger (7)
What a game! The German rock continues to prove his indispensability to Real Madrid. A commanding presence in duels, Rudiger snuffed out threats with his intelligence and reading of the game. As always, his physicality was key, stopping multiple Atalanta attacks. A flawless outing from Madrid’s No. 22.
Aurélien Tchouaméni (6)
A decent display from the French midfielder overall until late in the first half. Starting in place of young Raul Asensio, Tchouaméni was effective with timely interventions and consistent positioning. Unfortunately, his foul on Kolasinac in the box gave Atalanta the penalty that equalised the game, leaving some Madrid fans wishing Asensio had been on the pitch instead.
Lucas Vazquez (5.5)
Thanks to Madrid’s victory, the captain avoids heavy criticism. Back on the right flank, Vazquez worked hard to limit Ademola Lookman’s impact. While not always precise, he relied on his teammates for defensive support. However, he failed to prevent Lookman’s goal in the 64th minute, showing a lack of sharpness in key moments.
Fran Garcia (6.5)
Starting in place of the injured Ferland Mendy, the young left-back put in a commendable performance. Active from the outset with robust challenges, Fran Garcia supported Madrid’s attacks effectively. A solid showing from the 26-year-old, who is gradually proving his worth in the squad.
Dani Ceballos (6.5)
An interesting performance from the Spanish midfielder. A surprise starter, Ceballos brought energy and presence to the midfield. His style evoked comparisons to Toni Kroos as he worked to disrupt Atalanta’s rhythm.
Federico Valverde (6.5)
The man with six lungs didn’t disappoint. Valverde was tireless, despite some poor decisions in ball distribution. His defensive contributions, including several key interventions, were vital. As usual, he gave his all.
Jude Bellingham (7.5)
The midfield maestro had a game of two halves. Less effective offensively in the first half, the Englishman compensated with tireless running and crucial defensive efforts. In the second half, Bellingham struck a superb goal in the 59th minute to double Madrid’s lead. His class was evident in his elegant touches and commanding presence.
Brahim Diaz (6.5)
A brilliant performance from the Moroccan player. Starting the match under Ancelotti, Brahim immediately rose to the occasion. Technically sharp, Madrid’s No. 21 caused Atalanta’s defence countless problems and provided the assist for Mbappé’s opener.
Vinicius Junior (6)
Back earlier than expected from injury, the Brazilian winger struggled to make a significant impact. Positioned on the left flank, he missed several technical moves but capitalised on a defensive error to score Madrid’s second goal. Clearly not yet at full fitness.
Kylian Mbappé (6.5)
A night of two tales for the French striker. Starting brightly with his dynamic movement, Mbappé terrorised Atalanta’s defence and scored a fine goal. However, an injury forced him off around the 30th minute, casting a shadow over Madrid’s win.
Replaced by Rodrygo (5), whose minimal impact did little to alter the game. Mbappé’s injury now raises concerns for Madrid heading into the year’s final fixtures. Fans await updates.
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