Real Madrid delivered one of their most impressive performances of the season on Saturday, November 1st, at the Santiago Bernabéu, overwhelming Valencia with a commanding 4-0 victory. Xabi Alonso‘s side showcased their dominance from the first whistle to the final minute, securing a crucial three points just a week after their intense Clasico clash and three days ahead of their upcoming showdown with Liverpool. With this win, the La Liga leaders further extended their advantage over rivals Barcelona, reinforcing their status at the top of the table.
The match was a testament to Real Madrid’s evolution under Alonso. The players executed his tactical vision flawlessly, exhibiting fluid passing, sharp interceptions, and an organized defensive structure that stifled Valencia’s attempts to create any offensive threat. The Merengues took control early in the match, scoring three goals before halftime, which allowed them to manage their energy in the second half effectively. Notably, they maintained a clean sheet—a significant improvement for a team that had previously struggled to approach lower-tier matches with the necessary intensity.
A First Half to Remember
Rarely have we seen Real Madrid so dominant in the first half this season. Their offensive fluidity and defensive discipline were on full display as they overwhelmed Valencia. Despite two notable mistakes—a near miss by Dean Huijsen on Danjuma and a missed penalty by Vinicius Jr., which visibly frustrated Alonso—the overall performance was nearly flawless. The statistics tell the story: Valencia managed just one off-target shot in the first 45 minutes, illustrating Madrid’s suffocating control of the game.
Outstanding Performances from Fullbacks
Fede Valverde and Alvaro Carreras excelled in their unconventional fullback roles, contributing significantly both defensively and offensively. Valverde was particularly impressive; he played the entire match with vigor and determination, racking up 100 duels won, providing an assist, and recovering seven balls. His performance harkened back to his standout season last year—sharp, agile, and versatile.
Meanwhile, Carreras had a quieter first half but made his mark in the second period with a stunning long-range goal that marked his first for Real Madrid. His stats were equally impressive: 122 touches, 93% pass accuracy, and 12 balls recovered highlighted his effectiveness throughout the match. What was once seen as a potential weakness in Madrid’s lineup—the fullback positions—has now transformed into one of their greatest strengths.
Endrick‘s Return
After a six-month hiatus due to injury, Endrick made his long-awaited return to action during the final ten minutes against Valencia. Though he did not score, his presence on the pitch was vital for his confidence as he seeks to regain form amidst swirling transfer rumors. Alonso has consistently emphasized that every player must be prepared to contribute when called upon, making Endrick’s late introduction all the more meaningful as he looks to carve out a role in this competitive squad.
As Real Madrid gears up for their next challenge against Liverpool, this emphatic win serves as both a statement of intent and a reminder of their capabilities. With a solid foundation built on teamwork and tactical discipline, can they continue this momentum? Only time will tell as they navigate through an intense schedule ahead.
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