Dropping points against Osasuna might have pretty much ended any hope that Real Madrid have left in their challenge for the La Liga title. And for a long time, it had looked like that was the direction in which the game was headed. For the majority of the match, it was an uninspired performance on the part of Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
Los Blancos turned it on late in the game though and managed to score a couple of late goals in order to seal the win and the all important three points. On the scoresheet were Federico Valverde and Marco Asensio.
Of course, Valverde seems to have rediscovered his form lately and that is great news for Real Madrid. Early on in the campaign, he was one of the best midfielders on the planet and if Los Blancos are to win silverware this season, the Uruguayan needs to perform at that level.
On the other hand, Vinicius Junior deserves praise as well. He was the one who assisted Valverde’s goal and so nearly got one himself as well, as he found the back of the net late on. But it was ruled out by VAR. Asensio did make it 2-0 soon afterwards though.
Real Madrid duo save the club’s La Liga title hopes
It is safe to say that Valverde and Vinicius have been in the middle of most things that have been great about Real Madrid. Both had bad patches of form as well.
But now, it feels like they are once again playing at the top level and that could turn Real Madrid’s campaign around, after things had fallen flat for a good while.
Alvaro deserves major credit for his performance on the day as well. He came on as a late substitute and got himself an assist for Asensio’s goal, and nearly had another for Vinicius’ one, which was ruled out.