A look at some of the numbers behind Real Madrid’s dominant performance against Girona in La Liga
Real Madrid’s La Liga title hopes were in jeopardy when they faced Girona on Saturday night. Carlo Ancelotti suffered a further blow defensively as Los Blancos had no centre-backs available before the game. Despite this, the Italian continued to find a way out, starting the match with the centre-back duo of Aurelien Choameni and Dani Carvajal and right-back Lucas Vázquez. Madrid expected to concede just 0.1 goals against Girona, tied for the most in a game this season. They did all this without letting up on their attacks.
Royal White earned himself an xG of 3.1. The diamond formation, with Jude Bellingham at the top and the Brazilian duo at the top, wreaked havoc on the Catalan side.
Here we take a look at the three standout players who played in Madrid’s 4-0 win over Girona.
toni kroos
Toni Kroos’ performance against Girona
Kaiser. German sniper. Maestro. Whatever you call Kroos, the common denominator is the fact that he is one of the best midfielders of our generation. If this is the end to his illustrious career, he is truly at his best.
Toni Kroos made just one missed pass in the 90 minutes against Girona and completed all 18 of his long ball attempts. His 6 progressive passes were the best of any player in the match. His passing proficiency allowed him to find and develop targets and advance plays at will, but his defensive efforts were also excellent.
Partnering Eduardo Camavinga and Fede Valverde in midfield, Kroos sat at the base and also helped pick up loose balls. His seven ball recoveries were also the most of any player in the game. His territorial map will emphasize his presence and influence in the middle of the park.
jude bellingham
Jude Bellingham’s performance against Girona
Imagine being Real Madrid’s top scorer from England. Imagine becoming La Liga’s top scorer midway through the season. Imagine doing all this in the first season.
Jude Bellingham doesn’t have to imagine this. He has received various accolades including his name. The Englishman scored twice (once due to a left foot injury) to give Madrid a three-goal cushion. His movement is exemplary, appearing on the left or occupying the central zone to receive passes and maintain a threat in the box.
Despite only spending around six months in Madrid, he has developed a synergy with the team and has received multiple standing ovations from the Bernabeu fans. His running in the opener and his awareness in the penalty area make him a constant threat.
With 16 goals and three assists in the league, the former Dortmund man is on track to reach the 25-goal mark for the season.
Vinicius Jr.
Vinicius Jr. vs. Girona performance
When Vinicius is at his best, every defender looks amateurish against him. He was coaching Jan Couto on the field with his dribbling and skills. The Brazilian’s nine dribbles were the most of any player in the match, and he converted five of them. His ball-carrying was sharp and caused many problems for Girona, his movement and positioning to receive the ball stretched the backline and created space for other players (such as Bellingham) to attack.
Bellingham’s first assist was straight out of Modric’s Tribella book and was perfectly executed. The Brazilian has scored or assisted in each of his last four league appearances, including this one. He currently has seven goals and four assists. The 23-year-old is reaching his peak form just in time for the Champions League to return.
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