Real Madrid got the best from their city rivals in ‘Derbi Madrileno’. Benzema's superb goal with just over fifteen minutes gone and another from Asensio in the 57th minute, both from Vini Jr's assists, secured the three points for Ancelotti's side, who have now not conceeded in four games and move eight points clear of second-placed Sevilla. A victory with a double value like this one will surely be a reference point for Madridistas who confirm their top form and move on towards the ‘Winter Champions’ milestone.
The match started with a high tempo, but lacked clear-cut chances. The first came after 11 minutes when Kroos whipped in a corner, Militão flicked on at the front post and the ball sailed across the six-yard box but no one was able to get on the end of it. Everything changed five minutes later after Modrić won back the ball in midfield and Casemiro picked it up before playing in Benzema. The Frenchman laid the ball off to Asensio as the counter-attack picked up pace. Vini Jr. received on the right wing and his delivery was met by Benzema who fired a spectacular right-footed volley past Oblak.
The goal spurred on the hosts, who controlled the proceedings up until the break. The closest Atlético came to drawing level was when Griezmann’s free-kick was turned away by Courtois on 34’. Four minutes later, Madrid almost doubled their lead. Casemiro played through Vini Jr., the Brazilian tried to lob the on-rushing Oblak, but the keeper pushed the ball over for a corner.
After the re-start, the visitors dominated the possession in the early stages. On 51’, a reverse-ball by João Félix caught out the Madrid back line to find Cunha, but Courtois was quick off his line to smother the ball. Real Madrid hit back seven minutes after when Vini Jr. was played in by Luka Jović and the Brazilian squared the ball for Marco Asensio to slide in a second goal for the Whites, as the Mallorcan netted for the second consecutive game.
Ancelotti’s side defended resolutely and Courtois was in inspired form to push away anything that was thrown at him. Vini Jr. had the chance to add a third on 78’, when he was inches away from getting on the end of a low cross by Mendy, as Real Madrid came out on top in the derby. With the victory Real Madrid showed one again that this year La Liga is in their hands. For now, Ancelotti’s men only have to be careful and keep their great run.
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