Three takeaways as Real Madrid falter against City
By Hasan Karim
Zidane got it all wrong:
The initial starting eleven for this game was largely good enough. With the exception of Toni Kroos being left out, there was enough quality in the squad. Despite the result, Real actually did not play badly in this game. Yes, City were threatening – particularly in the early part of the second half. But, for large portions of this game, Real did enough.
They were pressing the opposition well, they kept Kevin De Bruyne silent and were pretty solid defensively – except for Dani Carvajal. After Isco put Real ahead, it seemed to be plain sailing – Real were pushing them back and threatening more than they had all game. Then it all came crashing down.
Vinicius, who had been the best attacker on the pitch, was taken off for Gareth Bale in a questionable decision. The Welshman offered little in comparison to the Brazilian, who had caused City issues throughout – in hindsight, it would have made more sense for Bale to replace Isco on the right, in order to support Carvajal defensively.
Ultimately, these errors alongside some questionable showings culminated in ten minutes that proved to be critical. Such is life.