The first whistles from the Santiago Bernabéu in the 67th minute already indicate that the evening went badly for the white supporters. These excesses in the Champions League, these impossible comebacks, the light that has been seen so many times in the alley, will not be applauded this time. … Madrid is in a quagmire and the anger of the supporters, dissatisfied and furious, reflects this. Neither Rodrygo nor Courtois, the best in general mediocrity, were able to save their team against Manchester City.
Courteous. Always the guarantee and benefit of dividends. They finished very close on the first goal. He stopped a few with the scent of a goal, notably Doku.
Fede Valverde. Doku, skillful and fast, made him suffer a lot on his right side. So much so that he practically did not participate in the affairs of the attack.
Asencio. This central defender he fell in love with when he came out of the youth academy has become blurred. Too many unnecessary arguments or fights. Doku caused him a lot of trouble.
Rudiger. It’s difficult to know whether Haaland canceled himself out or whether the German, who no longer has the physical exuberance of before, contributed. Impotence penalty on the Norwegian.
Races. Compliant and active. He made quick transitions and connected with Vinicius. When Savinho left, he must have suffered.
Tchouameni. Madrid’s defensive plan revolves around him and he almost always delivers. This is not the case with the offensive system, where its flaws are very visible.
Ceballos. The lack of minutes weighs on a quality player who had neither weight nor size in the match. Very reserved, he risked little. Lack of clarity.
Bellingham. Far from their level, despite efforts to show otherwise. Imprecise and rushed, like his team, especially in the second half.
Rodrygo. He was the best Madrid player in an exquisite, incisive, fast and creative first half. He scored a great goal because the shot was difficult and there was little space. Then it sold.
Gonzalo. He replaced Mbappé and those are big words. Lots of effort he worked against City’s defense, but no danger.
Vinicius. It started strong, fast and skillfully, and faded to inconsequence in the second half.
Arda Guler. The course of the night changed nothing. He tried to dominate the ball amid the general hubbub and failed.
Brahim. The disgust of other eras did not work on this occasion. Either they didn’t find him or he didn’t offer enough.
Endrick. A shot against the crossbar from a forced position was Madrid’s best guarantee in the second half.
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