Their top scorer was hurt and couldn’t play on Saturday, so Los Blancos relied on their other big names in their 5-1 win.
Fans were worried when they learned on Saturday that Jude Bellingham would not be able to play in Real Madrid’s game against Valencia. It turned out they didn’t need to worry.
At Santiago Bernabeu, Vinicius Jr. stood up and scored twice, leading to a 5-1 win over Madrid’s guests from Mestalla. The Brazilian player led the way, but Rodrygo and Dani Carvajal also played great, which led to a resounding win.
The first goal was scored by Carvajal, who cut inside his defender and hit a beautiful left-footed shot that went off the post and into the net. With five minutes left, Toni Kroos almost made it two when his free kick from 25 yards out hit the bar.
Valencia had a few good chances, but Andriy Lunin stopped them twice. They paid for not being sharp in front of goal when Vinicius scored Madrid’s second goal by deflecting Rodrygo’s cross into the net with his face just before halftime.
Any hopes of a comeback were quickly dashed in the second half when Vinicius cut inside a Valencia defender and sailed a shot just wide of the near post. A minute later, Rodrygo won the ball in the final third and put it home.
He scored another with less than 10 minutes left, and Hugo Duro’s fine consolation goal was the only thing that let Madrid down in an otherwise perfect performance.
Andriy Lunin (6/10), goalkeeper and defender:
In the first half, he made some great saves. In the second, he didn’t have to do much until Duro hit a great shot past him.
8/10 for Dani Carvajal:
Did a great job reaching his goal. Was often the most advanced player for Real Madrid on the field. Being happy with how the season is going so far.
The Nacho (6/10):
An effort that is usually reliable but not spectacular. Not very good or bad, but not very good either.
David Alaba (out of 10):
Had a free kick that almost went in during the first half. Was pushed a few times when Valencia scored on the break. Not the same guy without Militao by his side.
Sixth-grader Ferland Mendy:
Strong on defense. Won his tackles and kept Fran Perez from making too much noise in the process. Didn’t do much moving forward, but he didn’t need to because Vinicius was in front of him.
Además, Eduardo Camavinga (7/10), midfielder:
Not tired at the base of the center. Wins his tackles, moves the ball well, and thinks of clever ways to do his job. Madrid didn’t miss Tchouameni because of Camavinga.
6/10 for Federico Valverde:
It wasn’t his best show. Lots of legs, but not very good quality. When taken off, they seemed to be having trouble with an injury.
Kroos (7/10)
Hit the bar with a free kick. It was easy to hit the ball around. A showing of old things.
7/10 for Brahim Diaz
Not as detailed as during the week. He tripped and was dangerous when he had the ball.
Go after Rodrygo (8/10):
Your first goal was set up by a beautiful skill and cross. Scored two well-deserved goals to finish the game. These were his first league goals since August. He’s getting in shape.
Mr. Vinicius Jr. (9/10):
Excellent in every way. He caused trouble with his speed and tricks. The first one had great improvisation, and the second one had perfect skill. Four could have been caught. A truly impressive show.