Real Madrid‘s recent draw against Elche marks the team’s third consecutive match without a victory, a situation not seen since the 2018-19 season. The club from Chamartín is grappling with more than just disappointing results; the manner of their performances has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. Following a convincing win against Valencia at the Bernabéu, optimism was high. However, as the team faced the daunting prospect of six consecutive away matches, anxiety began to creep into the Madridista psyche.
Indeed, those concerns have morphed into stark realities. The team’s vulnerability away from home has been alarming. Out of the 12 goals conceded in La Liga this season, a staggering 9 have come in opposition stadiums. The draw against Elche felt more like a fortunate escape for Real Madrid, especially considering the number of chances created by the home side. A late victory would have been unjust, given how the match unfolded. Elche exploited gaps in Madrid’s defense with ease and demonstrated a clear advantage in midfield, leaving Thibaut Courtois under constant pressure.
Tactical Shortcomings Exposed
At the start of the match, there were glimpses of effective pressing from Madrid during Elche’s build-up play. Yet, this intensity was not sustained over time. Numerous instances saw Elche players comfortably controlling possession without facing significant challenges from their opponents. The 4-4-2 formation employed by Madrid, featuring a left midfielder, two central midfielders, a playmaker, and two forwards, failed to manage space effectively. While some may argue that defensive lapses contributed to the two goals conceded, it’s clear that a more cohesive defensive strategy would have prevented Elche’s attackers from finding such favorable positions.
Player Performances Under Scrutiny
Dani Ceballos stood out as one of the match’s disappointments, struggling to make meaningful contributions with several misplaced passes and ineffective plays. If his role as a defensive midfielder does not suit him, his inability to deliver consistent performances severely hampers his impact on the game. Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham‘s positioning since returning from injury has sparked debates about his effectiveness in the lineup. Despite finishing with a goal and an assist against Elche, other key midfielders like Arda Güler and Ceballos failed to assert themselves adequately.
The forward line also drew criticism; Kylian Mbappé missed a crucial one-on-one opportunity that could have altered the match’s trajectory while Rodrygo appeared far from his best form. After showing flashes of brilliance earlier in the season, Rodrygo’s overall lethargy is becoming increasingly concerning. Xabi Alonso faces significant challenges as he navigates these next three away fixtures. If his players do not elevate their performances substantially in upcoming matches, securing positive results will prove exceedingly difficult.
As Real Madrid finds itself precariously close to Barcelona in the La Liga standings following this draw, questions loom over their ability to bounce back and regain form before it’s too late.
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