Real Madrid might not have been at their blistering best but they did not need to be to maintain their perfect start to the La Liga campaign. After three straight wins away from home, Los Blancos got a win at the Santiago Bernabeu as well, as goals from Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo were enough to hand Real Betis a 2-1 defeat, as Sergio Canales’ strike proved to be a mere consolation.
Vinicius Junior has been in top form since last season and it was no surprise that he proved to be decisive once again. The winner came from Rodrygo’s feet though and that must have done his confidence a world of good.
Rodrygo has appeared to have fallen behind Federico Valverde in the pecking order recently, despite the Uruguayan not being a natural winger. On this occasion, the Brazilian was given the nod by Ancelotti though and he certainly repaid the faith of his manager by scoring the winner.
Despite not starting him often recently, Ancelotti seems to rate Rodrygo very highly though. As reported by Marca, the Real Madrid manager said after the game:
"“He is a special striker for me, because he can play in all positions. Fast, clever without the ball, effective one-on-one. His apprenticeship has ended and now he is a Real Madrid player for all purposes.”"
Ancelotti calls Real Madrid star ‘special’ after his winner against Real Betis
This is the second straight week that Rodrygo has proven decisive for Real Madrid. Last time around, he assisted the Benzema’s goal that put Los Blancos 2-1 ahead against Espanyol in the 88th minute, after it had looked like they were set to drop points.
And this time around, Rodrygo scored the winner himself in what was a tight game between Real Madrid and Real Betis, who were first and second after the first three matchdays.
Vinicius Junior had a breakout campaign last season, after only showing glimpses of his potential in the previous years. And only will be hoping that this time around, it is Rodrygo who takes the next step forward and becomes a Real Madrid starter.