Bellingham lights up the Bernabéu and Courtois shuts it down ahead of El Clásico
- Arda Güler's standout performance
- Start of the match and Madrid's attitude
- Juventus' performance and Courtois' display
- Real Madrid's chances in attack
- Discipline and control from the Whites
- Importance of the three points against Juventus
- Barcelona's situation before El Clásico
Arda Güler's standout performance
Arda Güler had one of those games that define careers. Xabi Alonso asked him to be unpredictable, technical, intelligent... and he delivered, winning the MVP award with honours. And behind him, the silent guardian, Thibaut Courtois, was once again the wall that wins Champions Leagues. The result was a 1-0 win over a Juventus side that is looking to be the Vecchia Signora of Europe, but with more respect. The score leaves the Whites feeling good just before a Clásico against Barcelona that could determine Xabi Alonso's immediate future on the Whites' bench after the derby debacle.
Start of the match and Madrid's attitude
The start was a statement of intent. Madrid needed to dispel doubts, especially after a couple of inconsistent performances in La Liga, and they did so with their usual high pressure, fast ball movement and a Güler who was on fire from the first touch. The Turkish player asked for the ball, turned between the lines, looked for the back of the centre-backs and found Vinicius in good form, given that Mbappé had disappeared from the game.
Juventus' performance and Courtois' display
Juventus did not come to the Bernabéu to lose the game and constantly sought out Courtois' goal, making him one of Real Madrid's best players. Vlahovic slipped between Militão and Asencio several times, but all he found was his coach's applause for his missed chances.
Real Madrid's chances in attack
Mbappé gave way to Vinícius, who repeatedly sought to break into the box until, in a burst of quality, a shot on goal ended up at the feet of Bellingham, who is finding his best form.
Discipline and control from the Whites
In the past, Real Madrid would have suffered, even conceding a goal in this type of match, but Xabi Alonso's discipline means that the team controls the ball more and leaves less space, although that does not prevent the Bernabéu from getting a few scares.
Importance of the three points against Juventus
The three points against Juventus leave the team well placed to avoid the awkward Champions League play-offs and with a bittersweet taste in the mouth ahead of next Sunday's Clásico.
Barcelona's situation before El Clásico
Barça thrashed Olympiakos with a dubious penalty and a more than dubious sending-off, but with six points up for grabs, there is uncertainty surrounding El Clásico, which will define the direction of both teams, as well as the controversy surrounding the suspended match in Miami.