Real Madrid 5-1 Celtic: Player Ratings as Los Blancos go on a goal fest
Real Madrid took an early lead by scoring two penalties in the first 20 minutes of the game, one in each corner of the net. The first half gradually gained traction as both teams offered some stunning moments on a frequent basis, and the two handballs were insufficient to keep Celtic at bay. The visitors were everywhere, and they came close to scoring several times in the final minutes of the first half, but something or other kept the score nil from their end.
The already high-performing side of Real Madrid became even more lethal in the final third, scoring left, right, and center, giving Celtic one of the worst nightmares in their history. Real Madrid’s collective was brilliant, with little negative to be found, particularly on the attacking front, which was fearless.
The team needed this battering win after a string of poor performances, as did the players ahead of a crucial tournament.
With that said, here are the player ratings for Los Blancos.
GK – Thibaut Courtois
Following a few subpar performances, the Belgian Wall demonstrated why he is still the best goalkeeper in the world. He made some great close-range reflex saves before making a brilliant penalty save to clear the dust off his name. Along with the defense, he was able to shift the ball across flanks and repress Celtic’s press. He dominated his box with a variety of fists and pushes on the ball, making Celtic’s approach to the net almost impossible. El Mejor!
Rating: 9.0
LB – Ferland Mendy
Mendy’s performances aren’t remembered until he’s absent. Returning to the lineup for this game, the Frenchman cemented the left flank like no other, as he always does. The penalty he placed may have been a mistake that can be overlooked because Mendy rarely makes silly lapses. He is entitled to that leeway.
Rating: 7.0
CB – Eder Militao
Throughout the match, the Brazilian was solid and aggressive in 1v1 situations, but he couldn’t keep up with obstacles in covering up the spaces, as he does almost every time. Celtic repeatedly took advantage of weaknesses in the final minutes of the first half, scoring nearly three goals if Courtois hadn’t saved them. Militao needs to step up his game significantly. Individually, he is good, as previously stated.
Rating: 5.5
CB – David Alaba
Alaba’s situation was similar to that of his partner, which we discussed above. Perhaps he was just a little better at filling in the missing pieces. Individually, he was strong, but he lacked Militao’s collective coordination. Though the duo improved somewhat in the second half, it is still concerning. Due to the number of goals Real scored, the defense’s shortcomings will not once again be highlighted.
Rating: 6.0
RB – Dani Carvajal
A typical Carvajal performance. He was everywhere up and down the wing, making an impact as he always does. He made runs, connected well, and made good saves in the back. The Spaniard provided an acrobatic assist on Asensio’s brilliantly placed goal. Consistently good.
Rating: 7.0