Travelling to the Estadio de la Cerámica this Saturday for Matchday 28 of La Liga, Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over Villarreal thanks to a brace from Kylian Mbappé. After the match, here are Carlo Ancelotti’s players’ ratings.
Thibaut Courtois: 8/10
Right from the start, the Belgian goalkeeper proved that he remains one of the best in the world. Standing at 2 metres tall, Courtois made three crucial saves in the first half to deny clear goal-scoring chances. He shone throughout the match. A very strong performance from Madrid’s No. 1 before joining his national team.
Lucas Vázquez: 7/10
Not bad at all. This Saturday, Lucas Vázquez put up a fight on his flank. Criticised in recent weeks for his defensive shortcomings, the 33-year-old Spanish full-back handled Villarreal’s attackers well. Offensively, he also contributed with an assist.
Aurélien Tchouaméni: 7/10
Once again deployed in defence to give Antonio Rüdiger a rest, the French midfielder put in a solid performance. Even though it is not his natural position, Aurélien Tchouaméni made some crucial defensive interventions.
Raúl Asencio: 7/10
Do we still need to talk about the young 22-year-old defender, who is set to earn his first international cap this March? No!!! Another solid display from Raúl Asencio.
Fran García: 7/10
A good performance from the Spanish left-back. Much quicker and more mobile than Ferland Mendy, who is sidelined for about four weeks, Fran García did not disappoint. Against Villarreal’s lively attackers, he was strong in duels. Offensively, he also contributed with his forward runs and high pressing on the opposition defence.
Federico Valverde: 7/10
The Uruguayan midfielder had a good game. Back in his natural position, Valverde gave his all, pressing the opposition relentlessly. Offensively, his presence disrupted Villarreal’s build-up play. In the second half, he slowed down, likely due to fatigue, but overall, it was a solid performance.
Eduardo Camavinga: 8/10
Are we witnessing a resurgence of Camavinga? Struggling a few weeks ago, the young French midfielder impressed on Saturday. Just like in midweek against Atlético Madrid in the Champions League, Eduardo put in a strong display with decisive interventions. Among Real Madrid’s midfielders, the former Rennes player was the most valuable in terms of defensive work rate.
Jude Bellingham: 7/10
Plenty of running, effort, and pressing from Bellingham, as usual. While he was not directly involved in scoring, he played a crucial role in securing the victory.
Brahim Díaz: 6/10
The Moroccan international covered a lot of ground. As always, Brahim gave his all until he was substituted. His technical quality, defensive efforts, and commitment were evident until the 61st minute when he was replaced.
Rodrygo Goes: 7/10
He performs much better on the left, and he proved it once again against Villarreal. In the absence of Vinicius, who usually dominates the left wing, Rodrygo caused a lot of trouble for the Yellow Submarine’s defence. With his speed and dribbling, the Brazilian forward did what was needed, even though he couldn’t find the back of the net.
Kylian Mbappé: 8/10
Without Vinicius Junior occupying his space, Kylian Mbappé thrived again. With a quick brace against Villarreal, KM9 did his job brilliantly. Despite Vinicius coming on, there was no spark for a third goal. Alongside Courtois and Camavinga, he was one of Madrid’s most decisive players in this match.
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