Ranking Real Madrid’s 10 most unforgettable moments of 2021
6. Toni Kroos’s perfect ball for Vinicius Junior
Real Madrid drawn against Liverpool for the Champions League Quarterfinals was a blockbuster draw in itself, given the history the two clubs share. It was only usual that fans expected fireworks. For this season’s meetings, the fireworks came from Real Madrid only as they thrashed a visiting Reds’ side 3-1 at Madrid.
Of the many smart moments of the game, one specifically stands out. In the 26th minute, Toni Kroos dropped deep to support the defense. He then saw Vinicius Junior with enough space ahead of him and thus he launched one of the most satisfying long ball assists you’d ever see. Vini had to run through two defenders and the ball reached Vini perfectly. He controlled it with his chest and fired past an advanced Alisson Becker to score the opener.
5. David Alaba’s first goal for Real Madrid
David Alaba’s transfer happened as it was planned. A simple and silent free-agent signing and yet, this signing has been the most effective one in LaLiga this season. David Alaba fit into this team like a glove. He replaced the commanding figure of Sergio Ramos in the backline and has done his best so far to stabilize the central defense.
However, he makes it into this list for his attacking exploits. His first goal for the club would always be an unforgettable one for Madridistas. Not only did this goal come in El Clasico, the most coveted fixture in Spain but also, because the goal clearly reflected Alaba’s abilities in the attack.
Alaba recovered the ball and passed it to Vinicius Junior who got past Oscar Mingueza very easily and lofted it over to Rodrygo Goes. Rodrygo would get his assist for finding David Alaba who had continued his run from the defense. The Austrian fires a shot from distance that beats Marc-Andre ter Stegen and swirls in the net. Alaba waits for the exact correct number of matches to start scoring for his new club!
Winning the ball, making runs, long shooting confidence, and accuracy. Name me any other Center-back who’d give his team so much in the attack. Alaba is a gem of a free signing and dare I say it, the best one since Lewandowski’s move to Bayern Munich.