Back in action this Sunday, Real Madrid didn’t falter against Leganés. Despite numerous injuries, Carlo Ancelotti’s team secured a 3-0 victory. After the match, here are the player ratings for the Madrid squad.
Mission accomplished for Real Madrid this Sunday. Travelling to the Estadio Municipal de Butarque to face the home side Leganés in the 14th round of La Liga, Carlo Ancelotti’s team ensured the essentials were achieved. Starting the match well with a few dangerous chances, Los Blancos found the breakthrough in the 43rd minute. In a collective move, Vinícius, benefiting from a ball recovery by Bellingham, set up KM9 for the opening goal.
In the second half, Real Madrid managed the game without much flair until Federico Valverde doubled the lead with a superb free kick in the 66th minute, followed by Bellingham’s third goal in the 85th. After this victory, which temporarily reduces the gap with Barcelona to four points (with one game in hand), here are the player ratings.
Thibaut Courtois (6)
A very quiet match for the 32-year-old Belgian goalkeeper. Back in goal after a few weeks away, Courtois benefited from solid defensive support.
Antonio Rüdiger (7)
Another standout performance from the German defender. Always in the right place at the right time, the former Chelsea stalwart perfectly supported young Raúl Asensio. On the few occasions Leganés attackers tested the defence, Rüdiger dealt with almost everything… A flawless match for the linchpin of Madrid’s backline.
Raúl Asensio (6.5)
Making his first professional start, the young Asensio, who had impressed with a strong cameo against Osasuna in the 13th round, reassured with solid defensive displays. Unafraid to take responsibility, the 21-year-old stood out with great positioning and leadership on the pitch. It’s safe to say Carlo Ancelotti has found a player who can effectively fill the void left by Militão. A promising prospect!
Fran García (6)
Starting in place of Ferland Mendy, likely rested ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Mohamed Salah, the young Spanish left-back did not disappoint. Rarely troubled defensively, Fran García showcased great discipline.
Federico Valverde (7)
Repositioned on the right flank in place of the injured Lucas Vázquez, Valverde excelled in his role. Both offensively and defensively, the captain for the night put in a tireless shift. His precise free kick to make it 2-0 in the 66th minute capped off a stellar evening.
Eduardo Camavinga (7)
Another solid outing for the French midfielder. Playing as a number 6 in place of the injured Aurélien Tchouaméni, Camavinga brought immense physicality to the midfield. Always ready for a duel, the former Rennes star recovered numerous balls. Another strong performance.
Dani Ceballos (6)
A surprise starter in midfield, the player linked with a January exit added plenty of variety to Madrid’s game. With visible determination, Dani Ceballos didn’t shy away from involvement and provided plenty of options for his teammates.
Arda Güler (6.5)
An excellent match for the Turkish prodigy. Güler, who has been eagerly awaited by Madrid fans, returned from the FIFA international break with a dazzling display of his talent. Comfortable on the ball, the attacking midfielder showcased some fine technical skills, adding flair to the game.
Nearly scoring an extraordinary goal in the first half, he proved he deserves much more playing time. A shining presence in Madrid’s attack.
Jude Bellingham (7.5)
Positioned behind the forwards, the English midfielder dictated the game. In a match where Madrid’s play was not particularly captivating, Bellingham was a constant threat to the Leganés defence. He could have earned a penalty in the second half after a brilliant run. His second goal of the season, scored late in the match, sealed a comfortable win for Madrid.
Vinícius Júnior (6)
A decent performance from Vinícius. Repositioned as a striker to allow Mbappé to play on his favoured left wing, the Brazilian forward held his own. After assisting the Frenchman for the opening goal in the first half, the 2024 World’s Best Player, according to Florentino Pérez and Madrid fans, created several scoring opportunities. It was also his play that led to Valverde’s brilliant free kick.
Kylian Mbappé (6.5)
Searching for a goal since 19 October against Celta Vigo, KM9 finally broke his drought. Despite missing a few chances, the French striker, who is not at his best, capitalised on Vinícius’s assist to find the back of the net. For the remainder of the game, Mbappé’s impact was limited, even though he played on his favoured left wing. While his goal was notable, Kylian must improve to succeed as a number nine, as he lacks the technical qualities to excel in this role compared to playing as a left winger.
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