Real Madrid secured their first win at the Riazor in 19 seasons and it couldn’t have come at a better time. iSporter Karan Shah analyses the 3-1 win against Deportivo...
Los Blancos went into the game knowing that Barca had won their away game at Gijon and losing would mean a massive 8 point gap at the top of the table. Manuel Pellegrini reinstated Raul along with Benzema in the starting line up with Ronaldo and Higuain both out injured and Granero stepped in for the injured Lass with Guti and Kaka the attacking midfielders.
The match started with an intense pace as The Whites pressurized Depor’s backline and they did not have to wait long for the opening goal when a misplaced header by Alberto Lopo found Granero who coolly headed it into the back of the net. Madrid should have been up by 2 or 3 goals immediately as Benzema and Raul missed absolute sitters.
The visitors were in full control of the match and Depor’s long ball strategy fell through as Ramos and Albiol gave no chance to Depor’s attack. Five minutes before half time Los Merengues went 2-0 up thanks to a classy assist by Guti. Iker’s long throw found Kaka who gave a defense splitting pass to Guti. With nobody but the goalkeeper in front of him Guti did something you’d see only in training. Seeing Benzema behind him from the corner of his eye, He back heeled the ball leaving the goalkeeper and the defense stranded and an empty goal for Benzema to slot the ball home. The match went into halftime with Madrid leading 2-0.
Manuel Pellegrini’s men started showing a lack of creativity in the second half but Deportivo couldn’t capitalize as the ball stayed more on the midfield of the pitch. Ten minutes from time Deportivo were given a lifeline when Riki won a dubious penalty appeal against Sergio Ramos. Casillas got a hand on the ball but couldn’t save the penalty. However, Madrid were strong enough to make it 3-1 in the end when Benzema hit a low cross to beat Deportivo goalkeeper Daniel.
Three points for the first time in 19 years at the Riazor and this newly formed team is showing the spirit and confidence which was clearly lacking earlier. Madrid host Espanyol next weekend and it seems the Men in White are looking more and more like a confident team who can dethrone Barca at the top.
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