Real Madrid’s defense continues to falter
Real Madrid put in a fantastic effort against Girona on a cool Sunday evening to finish the game 6-3 with four sensational Ronaldo goals. The team put on a great attacking performance, but left questions unanswered about their defensive efforts.
What Went Wrong Against Girona?
Real Madrid conceded three goals against Girona, two coming from the big man Cristhian Stuani on set pieces. We have to analyze the defensive setup and positioning to help understand why Madrid’s defense went missing on the important plays of the night.
On the first goal, we see a mismatch in the 28th minute between the 5’8” Dani Carvajal and the 6’1” Stuani. This seems very wrong to most people due to the fact that Stuani has the physical ability and height to beat Carvajal.
Girona then had another set piece in the 66th minute where Carvajal was tasked with marking the Uruguayan forward again. This led to their second goal.
This is very odd seeing that this matchup didn’t work the first time.
Girona then finished off their third chance on goal in the 88th minute with a great header from Juanpe. That is three goals conceded from set pieces in a match that would’ve taken a turn for the worst if we hadn’t seen the brilliance of Ronaldo to put 4 past their keeper.
Key Players Missing
Although Los Blancos conceded 3 goals, we have to take a step back and think about the key players who solidify our defensive line. Those players being the captain Sergio Ramos and defensive midfielder Casemiro.
Ramos was excluded from the 18 man squad for reasons unclear to us. We know how important he is to the squad. His strength and tenacity to win headers and cause trouble for attackers have been appreciated for over a decade.
While Casemiro was benched for the match, the Brazilian plays a massive role in must-win games and tightens the defense. His ability to intercept attacks and read the play proves why he is a starter and irreplaceable in his position.
Changes Going Forward
It would be hard to say that the defensive woes are due to the personnel. These are the same players that have won three Champion’s League titles in four years. We’d be better off analyzing the tactical setup.
Real Madrid is a very attack-minded team.
Sometimes the team puts too much emphasis on the attack with both fullbacks going forward, Ramos running up to the striker role frequently, and even the defensive midfielder bursting forward.
The team needs to work to find that right balance between attack and defense to not get caught out on the counter like they so frequently have.
Los Blancos are also in need of reinforcements. With the loss of Pepe over the summer, this club is a man down when it comes to bringing on a solid defender off the bench. They have a future in Jesús Vallejo, but he is still young and doesn’t have the experience yet.
With news that Gareth Bale might be leaving this summer, it would be smart for the team to make a huge signing for a defender to strengthen the team.
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It would also be wise to work hard this summer to fix these defensive issues that have been lingering for what feels like too long.
In conclusion, Real Madrid is a side with many wonderful qualities. They are the team that many emulate. The squad will never stop scoring but questions continue to be asked of the defending.
This summer is the chance to make a change and bring out a defense that compliments the keeper.
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