Real Madrid: 5 burning questions from a 2-0 win over Celta Vigo

Is Nacho’s place entrenched?

Let’s talk about another excellent defensive performance from this clean sheet victory and praise Nacho Fernandez. The backup center back looks like the No. 3 CB ahead of the young Eder Militao, as Zinedine Zidane preferred to start Nacho in the place of Sergio Ramos, who was a late exclusion from the official squad.

Nacho was incredible. He literally saved a goal early, which then led to a goal for Real Madrid directly afterward. Nacho, per WhoScored.com, had another block, four clearances, and five total defensive interventions.

He looked like a top La Liga center back in this game. Based on what we have seen this season, including in the Champions League against Inter Milan, it looks like Nacho is locked in as the top backup to both Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane. You can’t say he hasn’t earned it either. He’s like Lucas Vazquez in a way.

At this stage of his career, nobody will mistake Nacho for a super athlete or a world-class central defender, but his experience and sheer love for his club propels him to reach a gear that makes him a Real Madrid-worthy player. Celta Vigo isn’t an easy side, but Nacho outclassed their forwards in this game.