David Alaba stepped up when it was needed most
Injuries and subsequent discomforts had hampered David Alaba for the bulk of the season, preventing him from making the most of his performance and benefiting the squad as he normally did.
However, with Thibaut Courtois and Antonio Rudiger missing today, the Austrian coupled the perfect sort with Raul Asencio to make a powerful backline. His coordination with his teammate in the back and with the squad ahead of him was critical in keeping Inigo Perez's brilliant side under control.
Alaba had been suffering with confidence on the ball, and understandably so, but this game offered the most significant boost to his morale, and it came at the perfect moment. For the balance of the season, which will undoubtedly become more difficult, depth on defense with dependable players is critical.