It is easy to see that on paper, Real Madrid’s 1-0 win over Juventus would have been a typical game, but the game at Santiago Bernabeu showed that there were more tactical issues that the manager of Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso, will have to consider before the El Clasico. Even with being the top-possessing and registering 28 shots, Madrid failed to turn chances into goals—having to use a rebound to get all three points.
Although the Englishman is back in form, which is a huge asset, his lack of efficiency in front of goal begs the question of whether Madrid has good coordination in attacks. Kylian Mbappe’s scoring streak was broken, and even the normally prolific Vinicius Jr. had several of his goals rejected by Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio, who was in good form.
Instead, Juventus played a very disciplined game strategy, sat back with five defenders, and waited to be counterattacked. Dusan Vlahovic came away with almost one such opportunity, though Thibaut Courtois saved the net on his 300th appearance in the club and Madrid’s clean sheet.
The controversy did not take long to follow, as Francisco Conceicao’s rough tackle on Vinicius Jr. did attract protests but only a yellow card, which caused an argument among fans and pundits. Nevertheless, the game provided a reminder of how well Madrid has stood the test of fire, specifically how they have been able to sustain their defensive line even during Juventus’ late surge.
The victory also makes Los Blancos flawless in their group of the Champions League, with a total of nine points. However, Alonso will realise that such performances cannot be used against Barcelona alone. Madrid need to regain their cutting edge in case they want to demonstrate dominance through decisive victories in larger fixtures in the future.
