Real Madrid secured three points in Seville after defeating Real Betis and keeps the pace with the other top teams. 7 points in 3 matches is not perfect but it’s still very good considering all of the injuries and absences that occurred to the squad. Ancelotti cannot do anything alse other than smile as his team seems to be doing really good. Of course, there are still details that need improvement.
Below are the ratings for the starting XI against Real Betis:
Thibaut Courtois: 6.5
A solid clean sheet with Betis offering very little threat outside long distance shots that the Belgian handled with ease. However, there were a very few number dangerous chances which he managed very well.
Dani Carvajal: 6.5
Scored the game winning goal with a sublime one time volley. Ran up and down the right flank to provide a wide option. Though, the rust was apparent with Carvajal losing possession 14 times and winning only 3 of his 7 ground duels. His performance was riddled with heavy touches and sloppy passes. But he goes home brimming with confidence after securing the three points with a game winning goal and that has the main weight at his rating. He can certainly do better but considering the difficult period he just left behind we can conclude that he still needs a little more time to reach his optimal form.
Militao: 5.5
At times was disconnected to the rest of his backline. Had a few clumsy moments, including tripping over the ball prior to Madrid’s goal where Miguel Guttierrez came up big with a crucial interception when faced 2 v 1. He needs to focus more and move with a little more attention since the spaces he leaves may provide great opportunities to the opponent.
David Alaba: 6.5
Started at the center of the defence with Nacho absent due to injury. Was the leader of the backline, constantly barking orders to push up or press. No matter where he plays, he is always careful and correct. His abilities were not put into test too often last night, but he did a great job everytime he had to make interventions.
Miguel Gutierrez: 6
Had some difficult moments in the first half — struggled defending Aitor Rubial 1 vs 1 and was turned too easily. Had a few clumsy tackles, but gradually grew into the match. Seemed more settled in the second half, producing a quality cross into the box and some cleaner touches under pressure. His defining moment came during a 2 v 1 inside Madrid’s box with the left back astutely positioning himself to win the ball and ignite the counter attack which resulted in the game-winning goal. These situations are definitely crucial to help a young mature and every time he completes such difficult tasks successfully he grows into a better player. His season will probably be great if he will have enough playing time.
Casemiro: 6.5
A theme through Carlo’s first three Liga matches, has been Casemiro’s high usage on ball role. He had the most touches and most passes vs Betis. He produced a couple of Hollywood passes, one to Vinicius and one to Bale, that nearly resulted in goals. However, there were numerous times where he was caught on the ball or passed the ball straight to the opposition.
Isco: 5.5
Attempted to replicate the role and form that was exhibited vs Levante, but Betis prevented Isco from having as big of an impact. 1 of his 5 dribble attempts were completed, only 4 of 14 ground duels were won, and Isco lost possession 16 times. The effort was there, but the execution was lacking.
Fede Valverde: 5.5
A quiet performance from Fede Valverde as his strengths seem to be magnified when playing with Kroos and/ or Modric, but his weaknesses are highlighted when they are not present. Maybe he needs a more open play to make powerful incursions towards the opponent’s defense and to show his best skills.
Gareth Bale: 6.0
It was Bale’s off ball movement that was more impactful then any on-ball actions. It was the Welshman’s central driving run that attracted Miranda and opened up the space for Dani Carvajal’s game-winning goal. He may not be showing phenomenal skills but he is doing a very good job in these first matches of La Liga.
Vinicius JR: 7.0
The Brazilian was a live-wire throughout the match. He tormented Montoya and Guido Rodriguez. Vini attempted 13 dribbles, with 7 completed. He set-up Benzema for a great opportunity in the opening 10 minutes, and attracted two defenders for a pre-assist on Carvajal’s goal. His improvement with Ancelotti is obvious and if he continues with this rhythm this season will certainly be a great one for him.
Karim Benzema: 7.0
Another assist added to Benzema’s goal contributions over the last three games. Benzema has provided five goal contributions in three matches. His cross to Carvajal was perfect. Created some spaces for his teammates by making great plays off the ball, finished the game with 3 key passes and confirmed his vital role in Carletto’s team. Unfortunately, he did not score as he was found offside after the ball went in, in two cases.
Below are the ratings for the subs:
Lucas Vazquez: 5.5
Played both right wing and right back to provide defensive solidity and see-out the result.
Rodyrgo Goes: 5
Limited impact with only 12 touches and 9 passes. Little to note from this match.
Marco Asensio: 5.5
Played as a central midfielder again and seemed to run around with no clear direction on where he should be positioned. Had two long distance shots, one of which would have been better off slotting a pass to Vinicius inside the box.
Eden Hazard: 5.5
The Belgian was benched for this match and came on just before the 80th minute for Vinicius Jr. had one big opportunity at the end of the match to try and put the result to bed, but his shot was saved.
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