The rescheduled match of La Liga’s 19th round between Athletic Bilbao and Real Madrid lived up to expectations. After a fiercely contested duel, Carlo Ancelotti’s players suffered a 2-1 defeat.
What a bitter evening for Real Madrid! At San Mamés this Wednesday, playing the rescheduled match of La Liga’s 19th round against Athletic Bilbao, Real Madrid suffered their second defeat of the season in the league. Punished early in the first half, Ancelotti’s players had to fight hard to level the score after yet another missed penalty from Mbappé. Despite Bellingham’s goal in the 78th minute, the team conceded a second bitter goal in the 80th.
When it mattered the most, Federico Valverde, who was having a good game, made a crucial mistake, gifting the Basques the decisive 2-1 goal. With this mixed result, Barça extend their lead over Real Madrid, who are beginning to raise serious concerns, especially in the absence of Vinicius Junior. Here are the player ratings for the Madrid squad after the game.
Thibaut Courtois (5)
A mostly quiet evening for the Belgian goalkeeper. Aside from an early save after a misplaced pass by Asensio, Courtois didn’t have much to do. Despite numerous opposing chances, it was the defenders who handled most of the threats. Unfortunately, on one of the less dangerous attempts, he poorly parried the ball, allowing the Basque forward to score. He wasn’t decisive enough.
Raul Asensio (6)
Quick and solid on his feet, the 21-year-old defender delivered another strong performance. After an early intervention to make up for a dangerous error and a misplaced pass saved by Courtois, Real Madrid’s new darling raised his game. Despite intense pressure, Asensio made several key tackles. Although he was slightly late on the cross that led to the Basques’ opener, he continued to win back balls. Yes, Real Madrid has found a key player who makes Militao’s absence less noticeable.
Antonio Rudiger (7)
The defensive leader delivered yet another commanding performance. In moments of pressure, the German stalwart neutralised the danger in front of Courtois’ goal. Seeing his teammates struggle offensively, Rudiger pushed forward on occasion and even had a dangerous opportunity at the end of the first half. A very solid match from a player who never holds back and consistently performs for Real Madrid.
Fran Garcia (6)
A challenging evening for Madrid’s left-back. Once again chosen over regular starter Ferland Mendy, Fran Garcia struggled to contain Athletic Bilbao’s attackers. He was heavily involved defensively but didn’t shine offensively as he had in the game against Getafe last Sunday. Despite the defensive workload, he held his own with several crucial blocks and clearances to give his teammates time to reposition.
Lucas Vazquez (5.5)
Still not convincing enough from Vazquez. With Dani Carvajal sidelined by an ACL injury, the 33-year-old veteran is now a regular starter on the right. However, his defensive flaws were evident once again. Struggling against technical opponents, Vazquez endured a tough evening against Nico Williams. If not for Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde’s support in tracking back, Real Madrid might have suffered more, particularly from attacks down the right flank.
Aurélien Tchouaméni (5.5)
Back in action after a few weeks out with injury, the French midfielder had a tough evening. Early on, he was guilty of losing possession, which led to a dangerous chance for the Basques. Tchouaméni didn’t immediately recover, with several misplaced tackles and unnecessary fouls. He improved in the second half with some strong interventions, but it wasn’t enough to prevent the defeat.
Federico Valverde (4,5)
“When running is required, Valverde is always there,” as Omar Da Fonseca says. The Uruguayan midfielder gave his all as usual, providing key interventions and relief during the opposition’s dominant phases. However, at the worst possible moment, he made a costly error that gifted the Basques their winning goal. A night to forget.
Dani Ceballos (5)
A mediocre match for the Spanish midfielder. Surprisingly included in the starting lineup due to his recent good form, Ceballos failed to deliver what Carlo Ancelotti needed: creativity in midfield. Against a pressing and energetic opponent, he couldn’t shine. He was substituted before the hour mark.
Jude Bellingham (7.5)
The Englishman continues to impress with his all-around contributions. Bellingham was everywhere, both offensively and defensively, showcasing his leadership once again. His tireless effort, including recovering numerous balls, kept Madrid competitive. When his team was heading for defeat, it was Bellingham who stepped up to equalise. A phenomenal performance.
Rodrygo Goes (5)
A difficult evening for the 23-year-old Brazilian forward. Playing alongside KM9, Rodrygo had few chances to make an impact. He was practically invisible in the first half but tried to spark his team’s comeback after the opener. Unfortunately, with little service, it was tough for him to shine.
Kylian Mbappé (4)
Oh, the misfortune! Kylian Mbappé once again had a game to forget. Deployed on his preferred left wing, the French striker showed surprising technical limitations. Incapable of making effective dribbles, KM9 had no impact in the first half. In the second half, he missed a crucial penalty that could have levelled the score. Although he contributed to Bellingham’s equaliser with a powerful shot saved by the goalkeeper, Mbappé endured a nightmare evening overall.
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