Real Madrid has shifted into high gear, decisively winning matches.
Against Pucela, they efficiently defeated the last-placed team by controlling the ball.
They created multiple opportunities for Kylian Mbappé to exploit their opponent’s weaknesses.
Under Luis Enrique, ‘Kiki’ is recognized as the best center forward.
Ancelotti believes he is the number 9 who has regained his form, becoming increasingly influential in every match.
Valladolid, amidst a sales process, struggles to compete against a leader capitalizing on Atlético’s missteps.
As expected, Madrid allowed their opponents initial chances. David Torres headed a corner kick, forcing Courtois into an impressive save.
Los Blancos appeared to struggle with Ancelotti’s tactics, using a center-back (Asencio) as right-back and pivot (Tchouaméni) as center-back.
Additionally, Pucela’s momentum, particularly Sylla’s left-side runs, posed challenges.
The first notable duel occurred between Sylla and Asencio, showcasing both players’ skills.
A splendid recovery by Asencio contrasted with a dangerous shot from Pucela that tested Thibaut.
Pucela’s last coordinated attack came in the 24th minute. Afterward, the gap between leaders and the last team became clear, especially through Dani Ceballos.
He flourished under the coach’s trust, orchestrating play alongside Valverde.
Rüdiger nearly scored with a powerful shot, while Bellingham sought space, and Rodrygo almost netted the first goal.
Although he missed, a minute later, Madrid advanced, with Valverde’s incisive pass to Mbappé, leading to a swift shot into the net. The ‘9’ is truly stepping up.
The 0-1 scoreline established Madrid’s dominance.
They managed the ball comfortably, avoiding pressure on Hein’s goal.
The referee dismissed Javi Sánchez’s handball appeal, and Bellingham’s fall led to his booking.
After halftime, the coach made no substitutions; consequently, Anuar became involved in various plays.
Both Ceballos and Mbappé received yellow cards. Madrid organized defensively, waiting for a counterattack opportunity.
Valverde’s steal initiated a swift transition, finding Ceballos, who assisted Rodrygo.
Mbappé’s run resulted in a textbook second goal.
Despite ample time remaining, Madrid shifted to energy-saving mode ahead of the Champions League match.
Ancelotti began substituting players based on hierarchy rather than fatigue.
Asencio and Ceballos were replaced by Rüdiger, who had a bandaged injury, and Valverde, who limped off.
Cocca attempted to invigorate his attack with Latasa, but it yielded little result. Madrid extended their lead with Arda Güler’s excellent pass to Modric, who chipped the ball over Hein.
Almost an hour in, Mbappé aimed to assist Bellingham, who was fouled in the area by Mario Martín.
The VAR intervened, leading to a penalty and a second yellow card for Martín.
Mbappé converted the penalty, marking his first hat-trick for Real Madrid.
This performance solidified his role as a key player, setting the pace for Madrid’s future success.