Real Madrid: 3 takeaways from a 2-0 win over Granada

Marco Asensio has a strong showing off the bench

For most of the 2020-2021 season, Marco Asensio has frustrated Real Madrid fans with his uneven performances, which surprised many given how brilliant he was over the summer immediately after returning from injury.

Asensio was missing easy chances and not carrying much create in chance creation. But on Matchday 15 vs. Granada, Asensio brought his best as a substitute for an injured Rodrygo Goes in the first half.

The Andalusian forward nearly scored a goal for the ages, as his backheel shot hit the post. Moments later, Asensio created the first goal for Real Madrid anyway, finding the space for Ferland Mendy’s through ball before delivering an excellent cross for defensive midfielder Casemiro to head home.

According to WhoScored.com, Asensio had three key passes in this game, which reflects how much he tried to help his teammates. He nearly had another assist, too, but fellow substitute Isco could not get his feet sorted out in the penalty box.

Asensio showed slick skills and brilliant first-touches in this 2-0 victory. He was dangerous in this game, looking like the star player Real need him to be in 2020-2021 and not the disappointment from the first several Matchdays of the campaign. Here’s to hoping this appearance is a sign of things to come.