Real Madrid Triumphs Over Leganes #

Real Madrid secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Leganes, building on their earlier success against Osasuna. The win took full advantage of Barcelona’s stumbling form, with Carlo Ancelotti’s team showing reliability in both defense and attack.

Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring in the 43rd minute after a precise pass from Vinicius Junior. Federico Valverde extended the lead to 2-0 in the 56th minute, with Jude Bellingham capping off the win in the 88th minute. “It was a good game from start to finish, solid, focused. Vinicius did very well inside. The team controlled the game very well.”

As the standings show, Madrid now holds 26 points, trailing the league leaders by four points. They have moved past previous setbacks, including losses to Barcelona and AC Milan.

For the first time this season, Mbappé was deployed on the left wing from the start, a tactical shift where he collaborated effectively with Vinicius, who functioned as a center forward. Once the game resumed, another key pass from Vinicius set up Mbappé, though it was stopped by the Leganes keeper.

Mbappé commented, “I have a very good relationship with Vinicius, he’s a great player.”

While not yet reaching his peak performance, Mbappé has netted nine goals this season. The decision to play him on the left wing will be strategized game-by-game.

With injuries affecting key defensive players, Valverde stepped up defensively and was instrumental offensively, contributing a crucial goal. The coach has emphasized the necessity of versatile training, as seen with Valverde’s adaptable roles on the pitch.

The match also marked a special moment for Valverde, who captained Real Madrid for the first time. Meanwhile, Bellingham is regaining his form, showcasing an 88% passing success rate and influencing the game with decisive actions.

Despite earlier defensive constraints, Bellingham’s repositioning closer to attack has allowed more freedom, evident from scoring in consecutive matches.

Ahead of their Champions League match at Anfield, injury concerns linger for Real Madrid. Lucas and Tchouameni face uncertain recoveries, prompting potential strategic adjustments. In the absence of key players, rookies like Asencio might fill central roles. At left-back, tactical decisions are leading to Ferland Mendy’s selection for the crucial game.

Midfield plans remain fluid, depending on Valverde’s defensive position. Bellingham, Mbappé, and Vinicius are expected to continue in attack, with Brahim likely to complete the front line. “These are technical decisions and nothing more.” The impending duel against the Premier League leaders requires careful planning given the ongoing injuries and team dynamics.