Real Madrid Triumphs Over Benfica 2-1: Player Performance Ratings
Real Madrid secured a vital 2-1 victory over Benfica at the Santiago Bernabéu, advancing to the next round. The match showcased individual brilliance and key strategic interventions, making the difference in a tightly contested game.
Match Overview
The clash featured standout performances from several players who played pivotal roles in the outcome. Despite challenges, Real Madrid managed to capitalize on key moments to secure the win.
Player Performance Ratings
- Thibaut Courtois: 8 – Made four crucial saves, including a remarkable stop in the first half, though he had little support on Benfica’s goal.
- Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6.5 – Had a mixed performance, excelling in creating chances but struggling defensively.
- Raúl Asencio: 5 – Experienced a turbulent match and was stretchered off due to injury, raising concerns about his health.
- Antonio Rüdiger: 6 – Faced challenges with long balls but showed resilience by making late-game defensive contributions.
- Álvaro Carreras: 6.5 – Strong in one-on-one situations yet took some risks that created openings for the opposition.
- Fede Valverde: 8.5 – Delivered an exceptional performance, providing two assists and exhibiting relentless energy throughout the match.
- Arda Güler: 7 – Celebrated his 100th club appearance and 21st birthday with quality play, though he faced some defensive vulnerabilities.
- Aurélien Tchouaméni: 8.5 – Dominated the match with aggressive pressing and composure, scoring the opening goal.
- Eduardo Camavinga: 6.5 – Initially struggled defensively but improved as the match progressed, aiding in ball progression.
- Gonzalo García: 6 – Had difficulty finding his rhythm but contributed by creating space for teammates.
- Vinícius Jr.: 8.5 – A constant threat to Benfica’s defense, he scored the decisive goal in the second half.
- David Alaba: 6.5 – Provided stability after coming in for Asencio, showcasing calmness and experience.
- Franco Mastantuono: 6.5 – Came on with a defensive focus and executed his role effectively.
- Thiago Pitarch, César Palacios, Fran García: N/A – Limited minutes made it difficult to evaluate, though Pitarch displayed promise in build-up play.
Conclusion
This match not only signifies Real Madrid’s progression in the tournament but also highlights the importance of leveraging individual player strengths in high-pressure situations. The combination of skill and resilience ultimately led to their hard-fought victory over Benfica.
