Real Madrid: 3 Man of the Match candidates against Villarreal

CM Casemiro

Real Madrid defensive midfielder Casemiro is the best player in the world at the position, and it’s a statement he’s backed up time after time this season, including in March’s pivotal Clasico. But Casemiro didn’t look like the best in the world on Monday at Granada, gifting Darwin Machis a goal by losing the ball cheaply in midfield, breaking up Thibaut Courtois’ clean sheet streak.

Case’s rare mistake is a reminder that Real’s own worst enemy defensively are themselves. Players like Sergio Ramos and Casemiro must play to their world-class abilities on Thursday night against one of La Liga’s top attacking sides, because any mistakes will be punished by the clinical and opportunistic likes of Gerard Moreno and Paco Alcacer.

But Casemiro is another player who can make the difference if he has a great game. He can help shut down the middle of the pitch, where Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa has put together a true breakout season for Villarreal as one of Europe’s most coveted young defensive midfielders. Taking care of Vicente Iborra and experienced star Santi Cazorla’s incisive runs will also be crucial for Casemiro, who must also be aware of tracking the strikers.

Casemiro will have his hands full in this game, but he can distinguish himself as the Man of the Match if he meets the task.