Real Madrid: 5 takeaways from 1-0 win over Real Valladolid

Real Madrid have something in Luka Jovic

After an up-and-down season debut against Real Betis in a rare start, Luka Jovic was Real Madrid’s best striker of the three players who saw the pitch against Real Valladolid. Whereas Karim Benzema was sloppy and struggled to get into the game, Jovic’s movement created many chances for his team again.

Yes, Jovic should have scored his first golden chance, but he can be forgiven for squandering one quick-fire counterattacking chance. Jovic should have scored again later on a great header destined for the bottom corner, but Real Valladolid’s backup goalkeeper Roberto Jimenez made an absolutely brilliant stop.

For the first time in his Real Madrid career, Jovic received back-to-back starts, playing alongside Benzema in a 4-4-2. He outshined the legendary Madridista vs. Valladolid, and that’s an encouraging performance amidst rumors of him heading to Serie A or even Manchester United on a loan deal.

If Jovic remains with Real for the 2020-2021 season, fans can only hope Zidane continues to give him opportunities to start. This season is a huge one for Jovic’s growth, confidence, and future in the Spanish capital. Jovic was subbed early in this game to help make way for a shift to a 4-3-3, but he still played well despite the lack of goals.