Real Madrid: 5 takeaways from a 1-0 win over Real Betis on LaLiga’s Matchday 3

Real Madrid’s defense starting to settle

Coming into this match, there were reasons to be concerned about Real Madrid’s defense. Despite Betis’ recent issues in front of goal, they have attacking firepower with the likes of Sergio Canales and Nabil Fekir as creators. And Real allowed three goals to Levante the previous weekend. Furthermore, Nacho Fernandez would be out injured.

Real Madrid were not quite perfect and needed a brilliant, last-second stop from Thibaut Courtois to keep them ahead, but, well, what else are elite goalkeepers there for?

Overall, Madrid played well defensively. Casemiro made interventions, Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior worked hard to support the players behind them, Fede Valverde filled in gaps, Isco tried his best, and the back four were all solid.

The fullbacks, in particular, were brilliant defensively. Dani Carvajal made up for a few sloppy mistakes in the first half by being flawless in his defensive duties, while Miguel Gutierrez was a serious Man of the Match candidate with a team-high five tackles and two interceptions.

Miguel’s standout display gives him an edge at left back, even when Ferland Mendy returns. He is the total package. David Alaba looked promising at center back, though he will need more games to hit his stride. It’s very possible this back four ends up being Real’s main quartet this season, but Carlo Ancelotti has options when you factor in Nacho and Mendy.