Real Madrid secured progression against Talavera, but the match exposed both positives and weaknesses for Xabi Alonso’s side. While Kylian Mbappe delivered a decisive performance, defensive lapses will concern the coaching staff ahead of tougher challenges.
Below are the full player ratings according to Football Espana from the encounter.
Goalkeeper
Andriy Lunin – 7
Could have done better for Talavera’s first goal, but aside from that moment he was solid. He produced a crucial save in stoppage time to prevent the game from going to extra time.
Defenders
David Jimenez – 6.5
A respectable debut for the young defender. Looked composed and came close to registering an assist for Endrick.
Dean Huijsen – 6
Generally comfortable, but suffered a couple of lapses that will not have gone unnoticed. He should have dealt better with Talavera’s opening goal.
Alvaro Carreras – 7
Impressive again, showing he can operate confidently both at centre-back and left-back. A positive sign amid Real Madrid’s defensive injury crisis.
Fran Garcia – 5.5
Struggled defensively, especially in the second half, and his final ball was below the required standard.
Midfielders
Franco Mastantuono – 6.5
His first start since early November. Lacked sharpness at times, but overall delivered a tidy performance.
Arda Guler – 7
Controlled the midfield well and showed maturity on the ball alongside Ceballos.
Dani Ceballos – 7
A composed and balanced display, helping dictate the tempo in central areas.
Attackers
Kylian Mbappe – 8.5
A surprise inclusion in the starting XI, but Alonso’s decision paid off. Mbappe scored from the penalty spot, created the second goal and sealed the win with a late third, aided by the Talavera goalkeeper.
Endrick – 6.5
A solid outing in what is likely his final appearance of the season for Real Madrid before his loan move to Lyon.
Gonzalo Garcia – 6
Not heavily involved, but his role as a reference point helped Real Madrid’s attacking structure.
Substitutes
Rodrygo – 6
Entered the game and took the captain’s armband, a notable moment despite limited involvement.
Aurelien Tchouameni – 6
Introduced late to close out the match, though the closing stages were not entirely comfortable.
Jude Bellingham – 6
Very active during his brief cameo, which included a booking.
Jorge Cestero – N/A
Made his Real Madrid debut with a late appearance.
Conclusion
While Real Madrid ultimately got the job done, the match highlighted the contrast between Mbappe’s influence and lingering defensive vulnerabilities that Alonso must address.
MadridistasZone Comment:
Matches like this show how individual quality can decide games, but long-term success will depend on collective balance, especially in defence.