Real Madrid’s Triumph at San Mames
Real Madrid’s recent victory at the San Mames stadium against Athletic Club was a testament to their finely tuned form and exceptional team performance. This match, one of their best of the season, showcased a blend of tactical brilliance and individual excellence that left the home crowd subdued and the visitors jubilant. Thibaut Courtois, the Belgian goalkeeper, was a standout, making a remarkable save in the first half from an Alex Berenguer shot that seemed destined to beat him. Courtois’s heroics are a constant reminder of his indispensability to the team, a player whose value cannot be overstated.
Alexander-Arnold’s Stellar Debut
One of the most notable performances came from Trent Alexander-Arnold, who delivered what can be considered his best game in a Real Madrid shirt. His cross-field pass to Kylian Mbappe for the opening goal was a masterclass in precision and awareness. Alexander-Arnold’s crisp passing and incisive crosses not only set the tone for the match but also highlighted the quality that Real Madrid had been hoping to see from him. His presence on the wing provided a dynamic edge, making him an invaluable asset to the team’s attacking strategy.
The Defensive Fortress
The defensive line was another area where Real Madrid excelled. Eder Militao, as usual, was a rock at the back, contributing to the team’s solid defensive structure. His ability to read the game and position himself effectively has made him a cornerstone of the defense. Antonio Rudiger, although a bit slower compared to his partner, still put in a solid performance, adding to the team’s defensive depth. Alvaro Carreras played a reliable but unremarkable game, holding his own in both defensive and offensive roles. The chemistry and coordination among these defenders were evident, contributing significantly to the team’s overall performance.
The Midfield Maestros
The midfield was a battleground of athleticism and skill, with Fede Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Jude Bellingham all making significant contributions. Valverde, despite sometimes looking out of place in Xabi Alonso’s system, showed his tenacity in challenges and reliability in defense. Camavinga was a constant threat, mopping up loose balls and initiating attacks, even finding the back of the net with a well-timed goal. Tchouameni’s consistency was once again on display, quietly but effectively breaking up plays and distributing the ball. Bellingham, arguably, had his best performance of the season, showing sharpness and purpose both in pressing and in the final third, where he was instrumental in the second goal.
Mbappe: The Star of the Show
Kylian Mbappe, without a doubt, was the star of the show. His electrifying pace and clinical finishing were on full display, with two brilliant goals that solidified Real Madrid’s lead. Mbappe’s first goal, in particular, was a testament to his superstar status, while his selfless assist to Camavinga showcased his awareness and team play. With 25 goals and 4 assists, Mbappe has been directly involved in 66% of Real Madrid’s goals this season, a staggering statistic that underscores his importance to the team. His performance not only cemented his status as the best player in Spain but also as one of the world’s most formidable forwards.
Substitutes: Mixed Performances
The substitutes, while having limited impact due to the game’s context, provided varying degrees of support. Raul Asencio, replacing Alexander-Arnold, was diligent in his defensive role and moved to center-back in the final stages. Arda Guler, despite limited opportunities, showed flashes of potential. Rodrygo Goes, however, struggled to find his rhythm, continuing his longest scoring drought as a Real Madrid forward. Brahim Diaz and Gonzalo Garcia, who came on late, did not have much of an impact, reflecting the challenges of making an impression in a match that was largely under control by the time they entered.
Overall, Real Madrid’s victory at San Mames was a comprehensive and well-rounded performance, highlighting the team’s depth and quality. The individual performances, especially from Mbappe and Alexander-Arnold, were standout moments that bode well for the team’s future. As they continue to navigate the season, this win serves as a strong reminder of the strengths that make Real Madrid one of the world’s elite clubs.
