Real Madrid had a great performance at the Camp Nou, but not the result they wanted. Here’s a look at the Podcast discussion following El Clasico.
It took several weeks for the match to finally take place but the anticipation is behind us as Real Madrid drew level with Barcelona at the Camp Nou. After digesting the result and taking a look at the game again, Hasan and I sat down to discuss the draw.
Real Madrid had their first draw in a Clasico after 17 years and it was a feisty one no doubt with eight cards between the two teams with five of them shown to Real. With the draw, both teams hold at 72 wins over the other, so we’ll have to wait for next year to see who gets the upper hand if anyone.
Zinedine Zidane once against tactically got his team sorted out as Hasan discussed. Hasan liked the way Zidane urged the team into a quick high press, something that we all saw against Paris Saint-Germain the Champions League not too long ago.
Both of us were surprised with the inclusion of both Gareth Bale and Isco in the starting XI. Both of us had picked the former but was skeptical of Isco starting this game and I didn’t think he would given how he’s been the last couple of games. Safe to say both impressed and helped Madrid get on the front foot and create chances.
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Once again it was Madrid’s midfield that pieced the game together. The trio of Toni Kroos, Casemiro and Federico Valverde was phenomenal. Valverde once again stood out as the 21-year-old continues to impress no matter how big or small the stage may be.
It wouldn’t be a Clasico without drama though, Raphael Varane was fouled twice in the span of two minutes. Penalties should have been awarded as VAR refused to intervene. Real Madrid didn’t waste time after the conclusion of the match to share their thoughts on the officiating which you can read here.
That being said, there is tons to take away from this game and while it is just a hypothetical the idea of Hazard being in this game was nothing short of scintillating. Let’s just hope he’s fit and ready for the next one.
Madrid will be playing their next La Liga match against Athletic Bilbao, so stay tuned for a pre-match podcast.