DM Casemiro
Look at this picture above, man. This run was simply phenomenal. Never in my life did I think that Casemiro would make such darting runs from one box to the other on so many occasions perfectly, and yet he did, including one – probably the best one – in the build-up to the final goal. He touched the ball many times but even though he’s prone to making silly passes and touches, he generally did really well.
His presence on the defensive end was incredibly important, and it just showed that this man knows what to do in big games. Easily, easily his best performance of the season. It’s not close. I think he was the most important player on the pitch for Real, and it goes to show that Casemiro truly is made for the big stage.
Rating: 9.5
CM Luka Modric
Modric had another very good game. He was really important in so many chances that Real Madrid created, and was generally helpful in escaping Barcelona’s high press. Although he did have a bunch of giveaways early on in the first half, he improved as the game went on. Very good performance, not flawless, but very good indeed.
He was subbed off for Fede Valverde, who had a really good, impactful cameo – defending really well, trying to get the ball to open players, oh and scoring the winner and celebrating by showing everyone what his name is – just the usual for Valverde. Huge confidence booster for him as well.
Rating: 7.5
CM Toni Kroos
I won’t lie to you, right after the game ended I didn’t think Kroos had a really good performance. I thought he wasn’t seeing the ball as much as he usually does, but I have been proven wrong by Mr Tom Wade’s tweet right here. This man completed 75 out of his 77 passes, against a good Barcelona team that didn’t shy away from pressing the hell out of Real Madrid players. If that doesn’t tell you about his ability as a passer, I don’t know what will.
He was also very important on the defensive end – perhaps a reason why he wasn’t seen as much on the offense – with three tackles, one interception, four out of nine duels won. Another good game from Kroos, and I didn’t even notice. Wow.
Rating: 8.0