Underrated Real Madrid star saves Copa del Rey dream

It had looked like Real Madrid were set to exit the Copa del Rey early once again, with Villarreal leading by 2-0 and looking completely in control. While Los Blancos have turned games around several times in the past, this side had looked extremely sluggish in the weeks leading up to this game, were coming off of a poor loss at the hands of Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final and had already suffered defeat at the hands of the Yellow Submarine recently.

All things considered, it seemed like most fans had given up hope after the first half itself. And yet, one can never count Real Madrid out. The only difference being that this time, there was an unlikely hero.

Dani Ceballos has pretty much been a forgotten man at Real Madrid and is expected to leave at the end of this season, when his contract runs out. But based on this performance, the club should try to keep hold of him, as he has a lot to offer to this team, and perhaps has not gotten the chances that he deserves.

Ceballos came off the bench in the 56th minute vs Villarreal and provided the assist for Vinicius’ goal just a minute later. He was involved in Eder Militao’s equaliser as well, before scoring a beautiful winner late in the game to guide Real Madrid into the quarter-final and keep their Copa del Rey hopes alive.

Underrated Real Madrid star saves Copa del Rey dream

With how things were going for Real Madrid in recent weeks, this turnaround from 2-0 down against Villarreal is certainly very encouraging. And one would hope that this breathes new life into their campaign, and helps them rediscover their form.

As for Ceballos, he should become a bigger presence in the team moving forward, especially with the midfield struggling badly in recent times.

Yes, he should not be a regular starter on the back of one performance, but he does deserve to get more minutes on the pitch.

According to stats from Transfermarkt, Ceballos has made 16 appearances and played just 442 minutes of football this season across all competitions, scoring once and providing three assists.