Real and their counterattacking play
It is true that Los Galacticos started strongly and with great desire.
Indeed they appeared to be sharper and had bursts of pace when pressing forward on the counter. Their transition from defence to attack was superbly smooth.
Applause all around for coach Rafael Benitez, still one of the best defensive coaches.
In his true style of play, Isco Alarcon moved into a more central role and began to make several key passes forward. Not to mention his sublime combination with Toni Kroos considering the absence of Welshman Gareth Bale.
This offensive play worked wonders for the squad and was greatly supported by the defensive partnership of Raphael Varane and Spaniard Sergio Ramos.
Angel Di Maria and the absence of forwards
It is fair to say his move to the French giants from Manchester United has been positive not only for the club but also for the Argentine as he has more creative freedom.
Indeed during the match he found himself in prime positions where several excellent crosses and plays were made into the area.
But of course there was no one to be found in the box. This happened on more than one occasion. His side clearly had a defensive mindset yet when going forward one would assume the men would be committed for the cause.
Nope.
The at times four men put forward in the attack were easily negated by Real’s numbers in defence.
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