A nonexistent attack

The Real Madrid still out of gunpowder. They had to appear Kroos, with a great pass, and Casemiro, headfirst, to save the white team against him Valladolid. The offensive deficit is evident and without Benzema, injured, it has worsened. It continues to be difficult to see the door and not even the control of possession ensures danger. At Jose Zorrilla, Madrid had a 65% possessionbut only shot between the three sticks in Two occasions and none of their forwards (Casemiro and Lucas) did. We must add another five shots that did not see the door.

Zidane opted for Vinicius, Asensio Y Mariano in attack, and none of the three assumed gallons. Vini it went from more to less. He faced his side a couple of times in the first 20 minutes, but without creating danger. After that, it was disappearing. Asensio came into play very little and with little success. Anchoring him in the band does not benefit him and it shows. Finally, Mariano did not take advantage of his opportunity replacing Benzema. Although he was incisive, wanting to generate problems for the rival defense, at no time could he do so. He scored two goals, but both offside.

All three were substituted at the same time. The lack of creativity in attack despaired of Zidane, who ended up withdrawing them in the 66th minute for Isco, Arribas Y Hugo Lasted. The triple change was accompanied by a change of system: from 4-3-3 to 5-4-1. “We needed to contribute more for the bands“argued the coach.

A fireproof middle of the field

In attack, Madrid was again supported by its midfield. Not only because of the goal, made between Kroos and Casemiro, but also because of the game. They lacked some rhythm in some sections of the game, but they tied up Valladolid for much of the game by controlling the ball. Total 551 passes were completed and 181 were made by Casemiro, Kroos and Modric. The success was 87%.

The trio made up of the Brazilian, the German and the Croatian has been essential for the coach for years, and this season was not going to be less. They are one of the footballers who have played the most minutes (total 6,800 'between the three). They have also contributed a lot in attack: have participated in 23 goals of the team's 47 goals, scoring (12) or assisting (11). Zidane prays that none of them catch a cold in the remaining months of competition. Without them, titles could become impossible.

Real Madrid Shield / Flag

LaLiga Santander

* Data updated as of February 21, 2021