Player ratings from Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Paris Saint-Gemain
Attack
Karim Benzema – 7
Benzema wasn’t the sharpest knife in Zidane’s kitchen for this match, but for what he lacked in his finishing touch, he excelled at being a distraction. Karim was unable to finish as he went one-on-one with Areola on two occasions. He did, though, hold the ball well in tight spaces despite being double teamed, creating space for his teammates.
Cristiano Ronaldo – 9.5
Just when you think he can do no more, the Portuguese talisman surprises you with more sparkle than a diamond ring. Ronaldo was flying up the pitch in the first half but with little support, was unable to score or assist his teammates, that was of course until the second half. Ronaldo soared high for a marvelous header to give Real Madrid the lead. CR7 also assisted Casemiro for the second and final goal of the night.
Substitutes
Toni Kroos – 7
Toni did not start the game as he had just recovered from a knock he picked up in the first-leg against PSG. The German came on and helped settle things down with clean and composed passing.
Gareth Bale – 7
Bale was kept to the bench as Zidane elected to play Vazquez instead. The addition of the Welshman meant some fresh legs and more possession for Madrid. Gareth looked fit so it seems like it is only a matter of time before he resumes action in the UCL.
Isco – 7
Fellow Spaniard Marco Asensio got the start and with Zidane’s more defensive approach, this meant Isco sat most of the game out. Isco tried to get in on the scoring sheet with a nice crack at the 90th minute
Next: PSG vs. Real Madrid: Three takeaways
Conclusion
It was certainly a great performance for Real Madrid. It was such a masterclass and display of Madrid’s tactical ingenious. This win has the players and fans gleaming with confidence and was no doubt deserved.
Along with the victory coming on Real Madrid’s birthday, it was a historic day in many ways.
Real Madrid’s next match is against Eibar this Saturday with a very early kickoff. The match is not at home so Zizou and his men will have to make another journey out. Let’s hope that Real Madrid can keep up this fine form and steer clear of injuries.