Up: Martin Odegaard stands out in Real Madrid return
Real Madrid fans weren’t sure if Martin Odegaard would be able to start, much less play, against the team he shined for in 2019-2020, Real Sociedad.
But Odegaard started as the attacking midfielder behind Karim Benzema, often playing alongside him like Isco. Odegaard led the press and worked hard to win the ball back for his team high up the pitch, just as he did in his game-changing role with La Real last season.
Odegaard was a commanding presence upon his return to the Royal Whites. The 21-year-old was not afraid to impose himself on the game and be a leader in the middle of the attack. If the forwards were more up to it, he would have had an assist.
It’s always important to see how a player connects with Benzema. Eden Hazard had a great connection with Benzema in the Fall of last year after being acclimated to the team. For Odegaard, there has been no acclimation period; he’s already on the same wavelength as his striker.
Odegaard had two key passes and always looked a threat to create a chance. The Norwegian midfielder’s movement both in the attack and on defense was game-changing. It will be exciting to see how he continues to integrate into the team, because he and Benzema, on better days, will tear apart La Liga defenses together.