Real Madrid 3 – 0 Atletico Madrid: 3 takeaways from the Champions League semifinal Madrid Derby
By Alex McVey
Madrid’s depth shows its value.
The one down-side from this Madrid Derby from Real’s perspective was the half-time substitution of Dani Carvajal. Landing awkwardly after coming down hard from an aerial duel with Saul, Carvajal had to be subbed off.
Madrid only had one defensive player on the bench, and no true full-backs. That didn’t bother Zidane, though. Why would Madrid need both a center-back and a full-back, after all, when we’ve got the defensive Swiss Army Knife known as Nacho Fernandez?
When called in to the full-back position, Nacho this season has typically played on the left. However, Nacho is naturally right-footed, and has been able to play comfortably at both full-back positions. He was an able substitute, and allowed Zidane to not take any risks with Carvajal, who apparently felt a discomfort in his thigh.
COPE: Carvajal felt discomfort at the back of his thigh. Tests to be done on Thursday.
— M•A•J (@UltraSuristic_) May 2, 2017
The other two substitutes Zidane made in the match also made an impact. Marco Asensio is showing that he has what it takes to compete for regular minutes in Zidane’s starting lineup. He allowed Zidane to take off Isco who was running the risk of picking up a second yellow card. And Lucas Vázquez also provided a burst of energy as he was substituted for the profligate Karim Benzema.
Having these two quick, young players on the bench allowed Ronaldo the space to open up the game in the second half. Their fresh legs were able to stretch Atleti’s defense thin, and showed the value of having so many star quality players waiting in the wings.