Real Madrid have won clearly against FC Villarreal on the 17th La Liga matchday. After a strong first half, the Blancos only had to tremble a little in the second half – a double strike made things clear. A serious knee injury to Alaba overshadowed the victory
Real coach Carlo Ancelotti rotated his squad after the 3:2 win at Union Berlin in the Premier League: Lunin, Rüdiger, Mendy, Bellingham and Brahim Diaz started for Kepa, Nacho, Fran Garcia, Dani Ceballos and Joselu (all bench). Kroos was once again given the nod.
Villarreal coach Marcelinho was without keeper Jörgensen, Mandi, Alfonso Pedraza and Morales after the 3-2 defeat at Stade Rennes in the Europa League, with Reina and ex-Leipzig man Sörloth dropping to the bench. Gabbia and Foyth were completely absent from the Yellow Submarine squad.
The favorites from Madrid were better in the game right from the start. Bellingham had given away the lead in the early stages after a mistake by ex-Blanco Raul Albiol (7th). In the 25th minute, however, the Englishman, who had set the scene himself, was on hand to head home his 13th goal of the season. This was set up by veteran Modric – who had failed to hit the crossbar a few seconds earlier (23′).
Alaba injured on the pitch – Rodrygo’s goal still counts
The Ancelotti team continued to dominate proceedings, with Villarreal barely making an impact. However, the Whites suffered a shock midway through the first half when Alaba twisted his ankle and was unable to play due to an injury to his left knee, which is why he was substituted (35′). The Madrilenians continued to play well, with Rodrygo scoring from a corner in a scramble (37). The goal, which was initially disallowed, counted after a VAR decision
The second half began at a leisurely pace, with little happening on either side at first. The equalizer finally came out of nowhere through Morales, who was through on goal after a fine pass and kept his cool in front of Lunin (54′). At the other end, Rodrygo was denied by Jörgensen (57′).
Brahim Diaz solo to make it 3:1
Real now had a few problems, Villarreal fought their way back. But then came Brahim Diaz’s moment. He picked up the pace in midfield, got around Cuenca in the penalty area and finished (64′). Four minutes later, Modric scored after Capoue had made a mistake (68′).
After 4:1, hardly anything happened and Real ran out deserved winners. The Whites next visit Deportivo Alaves (Thursday, 9.30pm), who could ensure that Girona do not return to the top spot they have just taken from Real on Monday (9pm).
