Real Madrid secured a spot in the Champions League quarter-finals, overcoming RB Leipzig with a 2-1 aggregate win, thanks to a crucial goal orchestrated by the dynamic duo of Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr. The match saw Lois Openda missing early chances for Leipzig, while Real Madrid struggled to create opportunities in the first half with Carlo Ancelotti deploying five midfielders.
At halftime, Ancelotti introduced Rodrygo, bringing a spark that changed the game. Bellingham’s impressive run into the final third set up Vinicius, who skillfully finished to restore Madrid’s aggregate lead. Leipzig responded with a goal from Willi Orban, but despite additional chances, they couldn’t find the net, and Real Madrid advanced.
Goalkeeper and Defense:
– Andriy Lunin (5/10): Made important saves but couldn’t prevent Leipzig’s goal.
– Dani Carvajal (7/10): Active in the early stages and settled into his role later in the game.
– Antonio Rudiger (7/10): Blocked crucial attempts and celebrated appropriately.
– Nacho (6/10): Solid defensively and effective in retaining possession.
– Ferland Mendy (5/10): Faced challenges from Leipzig’s attackers and struggled in tackles.
Midfield:
– Toni Kroos (7/10): Kept the ball moving, especially on the break, with a high passing accuracy.
– Aurelien Tchouameni (6/10): Solid at the base of midfield, making timely tackles but committing some fouls.
– Eduardo Camavinga (5/10): Ineffective in the first half, subbed off at halftime to adjust the team’s setup.
– Federico Valverde (6/10): Deployed in an unfamiliar role initially, looked better when dropping deeper in the second half.
Attack:
– Jude Bellingham (7/10): Operated as a striker in the first half, provided a key assist for Vinicius’ goal.
– Vinicius Jr (8/10): Dangerous with the ball, scored a remarkable goal, but occasionally got caught in trouble.
Subs & Manager:
– Rodrygo (7/10): Introduced at halftime, brought energy, and contributed to stretching the game.
– Luka Modric (6/10): Entered late to provide midfield control.
– Joselu (N/A): Limited playing time, no significant impact.
– Carlo Ancelotti (6/10): Initially fielded an intriguing lineup, adjusted at halftime, and secured the necessary result despite the team’s overall performance.
