Real Madrid registered their first win under Xabi Alonso after putting three past Pachuca on Sunday night.
Real Madrid won 3-1, aided by goals from three midfielders in Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler and Fede Valverde.
However, they did have an early setback, because of which the team had to adapt and improvise.
A Real Madrid youngster has just been handed a wake-up call by Xabi Alonso
Defender Raul Asencio got sent off for a soft challenge, but it did not matter as he was the last Real Madrid outfield player there.
It was foolish from a player touted for his defending and maturity all of last season, and it made no sense for him to do what he did.
Alonso spoke to the press after the game, and he had some strict and some affirmative words for him after the game.
He said: "Asencio shouldn't have made that mistake. We will talk to him. Early in the game, you need to take a chance, not make a foul for the red card. He’s still young, and this is an experience to think about for the future."
Antinio Rudiger's return from injury came at the right time as he was able to slot in next to brilliant performer Dean Huijsen on the night.
It also means that Rudiger will have to play against Salzburg irrespective of where he is fitness wise, unless Alonso decides to go for Aurelien Tchouameni at centre back if there is a risk.
Real Madrid do not have much time to dwell on this as their next match is in just four days, and they need to win to go through as group winners.
Los Blancos did play really well after conceding the red card early on, and it goes to show that bit by bit, game after game, the team is really improving. It will take some time, and players like Asencio will need to step up, but things are looking better.