Three lessons learned from Real Madrid 2-0 Athletic Club

One of Real Madrid’s most daunting fixtures of the league calendar passed rather smoothly on Sunday night when they took on Athletic Club at home.

With their Cup final later this week, Ernesto Valverde’s men were very cautious with their approach to the game, thus playing the cards to Real Madrid’s favour.

A 2-0 win was the final result that emerged from the 90-minute tussle, as Carlo Ancelotti’s men retained their eight-point lead at the top of the table.

With only eight league games left to go, the title is inching closer to having the Merengues’ name etched on it.

Madrid Universal brings you three lessons learned from Real Madrid 2-0 Athletic Club.

A favourable change in position
Vinicius Jr.’s suspension against Athletic Club was expected to play a big role in how Real Madrid approached the fixture. After all, the Brazilian has been the engine in the Merengues’ attack for several games now.

Brahim Diaz took Vincius’ spot in the starting lineup as expected, with Jude Bellingham returning to the XI after suspension as well. The novelty in Carlo Ancelotti’s approach, however, came in the positioning of Rodrygo Goes.

The Brazilian phenom, who has played on the right flank all season, was given a run on the left flank. Replacing Vinicius Jr in his niche, he took over the responsibility from his compatriot and shone like none other.

The 23-year-old was Real Madrid’s best player by far last night, constantly threatening the Basque defence with his menacing runs.

Just eight minutes after kickoff, the youngster scored an absolute gobsmacker to give his side the lead. Receiving the ball on the left flank, he cut onto his right foot and sent a curling shot right into the top corner from the edge of the box.

In 81 minutes, the Brazilian phenom completed two dribbles, created one big chance and had one shot on target. Furthermore, he even recorded two key passes on the night.

Rodrygo added the icing to the cake with a superb finish in the second half, completing his brace and earning the man of the match award.

The change in position thus worked well for Rodrygo and will go a long way in boosting his confidence. He will, however, be forced to return to the right in upcoming games with Vini’s return.

Away from all the hard-fought action that unfolded at the Santiago Bernabeu last night, there was an event in extra-time that got the stadium on its feet.

Indeed, Eder Militao made his much-awaited return from injury last night as he came on to replace Dani Carvajal in the 92nd minute. He was on the field for just one minute, but those 60 seconds sent the Bernabeu and the player through a roller-coaster of emotions.

The past year has not been easy for the Brazilian defender. An injury against Athletic Club on Matchday 1 ruled him out of action for close to the entire season, and he has spent months dreaming of a potential return this season.

After eight months of relentless effort on the sidelines, unexpected setbacks and more hard work, Militao made the squad to face the same team he was injured against.

Rightly so, Ancelotti ensured that the poetic return could happen as he allowed the player to step on the grasses of the Bernabeu last night.

Real Madrid must not look to rush matters with the Brazilian, for managing his minutes and incorporating him slowly will be key in preventing any relapses. Now that the process of his return has begun, fans can look forward to longer cameos by the star defender.

Real Madrid are ready
El Clasico is usually the highlight of the footballing calendar for both Barcelona and Real Madrid. Yet, it will only be the third most important game Los Blancos play in April.

The highlight of Real Madrid’s calendar for April is the Champions League tie against Manchester City. Fighting for a place in the final four, both sides will take to the field twice this month, the first of which is the team’s next game.

With less than ten days left before they lock horns with Pep Guardiola’s side, it is safe to say that Real Madrid are ready for the big game.

The team was far from its best version in February, grinding out narrow wins from unconvincing games.

The comfortable win over Athletic Club last night, however, capped off a run of three straight dominant wins for Los Blancos. Having beaten Celta Vigo and Osasuna 4-0 and 4-2 respectively, they carried forward the momentum with a convincing 2-0 win over Ernesto Valverde’s side.

The confidence Real Madrid exuded on Sunday night testifies that the men in white are ready for the big game. A nine-day hiatus will only help further their preparation for the game.