6-0 was the final scoreline as Real Madrid routed APOEL in the UEFA Champions League. The current holders have been in misfiring form throughout the season, however, they looked at their brilliant best tonight. A brace each for Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, as well as single goals from Luka Modric and Nacho, saw Madrid run rampant over the Cypriot side. Here at The Real Champs, we are going to rate the performance of the starting XI.
Goalkeeper and Defenders
Kiko Casilla – 7/10:
It was an uneventful night for the Spanish shot-stopper, Casilla.
With APOEL having very limited chances at his goal, the keeper performed well in the few times he was called into action. With Keylor Navas’ return still up in the air, Casilla has been in very good form between the sticks having hardly put a foot wrong since Navas has been injured. He put in another good performance tonight and also kept a clean sheet.
Marcelo – 7.5/10:
Marcelo put in a strong performance in this match. His defensive game was strong as he kept the majority of any threats coming down his side to a minimum. He was exceptional going forward, his marauding runs and pinpoint crosses proved to be a thorn in the home side throughout the night.
His cross for Ronaldo’s first goal was simply exceptional. All in all, a strong performance from an ever-consistent performer.
Nacho – 8/10:
With Sergio Ramos out with a fractured nose, Nacho was asked to step in for the fallen Real Madrid stalwart. He put in a solid performance alongside Raphael Varane.
The reliable defender played a great game for the team, nullifying every attack that came toward the Madrid box. Alongside, hat he also cropped up with a goal. An all-around great performance from Nacho.
Raphael Varane – 8/10:
Varane has been nothing short of incredible thus far this season.
The French center back has continued to evolve under Zidane and looks better with each performance he completes. Throughout the game, he was in imperious form – snuffing out anything that came his way. Alongside his super defensive efforts, he also glided forward a few times and helped out in the attack.
The French defender can be proud of his performance in this big win as he was fantastic from start to finish.
Dani Carvajal – 7.5/10:
You would be forgiven for thinking Carvajal didn’t miss 6 weeks of football for a serious heart issue.
Since his return to the team, Dani hasn’t missed a step. The Spanish fullback has gone right back to doing what he does best – stopping danger down the right side and marauding forward with unstoppable intent and tireless work ethic.
Like Marcelo in this game, Carvajal ran his side of the field with no issues at all and didn’t look uncomfortable once during the game. The only blotch on his record is the rather foolish yellow card he picked up for time wasting which means he is banned from the next game against Borussia Dortmund.