Real Madrid: Top 7 performances from 2-0 win over Barcelona

2 of 4

MADRID, SPAIN – MARCH 01: Federico Valverde of Real Madrid with the ball during the Liga match between Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on March 01, 2020 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Mateo Villalba/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) /

CM Fede Valverde

A standout in the first Clasico, Fede Valverde continues to show why he’s so important in rivalry games. The Real Madrid center midfielder was exceptional against Atletico Madrid in both Derbis in 2020, and he was the official Man of the Match in March’s Clasico.

Valverde played great one-twos with Dani Carvajal on the right side of Real’s formation to give the home side’s attack much-needed width on the flank opposite Vinicius Junior and Marcelo. The young Uruguayan also provided his usual running and covering in midfield, completely outclassing the more expensive Frenkie de Jong for the second time this season.

It’s hard to measure the impact of Valverde’s work rate in statistics, but he did have a crucial three interceptions in the win, per WhoScored.com.

DM Casemiro

Alongside Fede Valverde, Casemiro had a brilliant game in the middle of the park. He made so many interventions in this one, recording three tackles and four interceptions to lead the way. Casemiro more than bounced back from a surprisingly sloppy performance in the Champions League vs. Manchester City, as he was impeccable against Barcelona.

El Clasico needed Casemiro to be immense defensively, and he completely shut down Lionel Messi on this day. Casemiro’s tackle against Messi inside the penalty box typified his day at the office, as he was never going to be denied the chance to play a role in a home clean sheet.

Home/Analysis