Real Madrid played the fifth group stage match in the UEFA Champions League, which ended up being a goal-fest. Napoli opened the score within the first ten minutes with Giovani Simeone’s strike, but Rodrygo Goes did not take too much time to bring the scores level.
Jude Bellingham scored another goal eleven minutes later, which was equalized by the Italians just at the start of the second half. Nico Paz then scored a long ranger on the 84th minute, to which Joselu added another in injury time to end the match 4-2.
The Merengues were missing important players like Militao, Courtois, Kepa, Tchouameni, Camavinga, Modric, and Vinicius, but were still able to do the job and get a win that guarantees them the top spot in the Champions Leauge group stage.
Rodrygo, Bellingham, and Brahim ran the show, while Carvajal also had impressive marauding runs. Nico Paz also had a good outing as he scored his first goal for Real Madrid first team. Joselu was the definition of wastefulness tonight, but was still able to get a goal.
This is how the Madrid players fared against their Italian opponents.
Andriy Lunin: 6.0
Almost saved the first goal scored by Napoli, but the ball had unfortunately crossed the line. The second goal was also too strong to be saved, and the Ukrainian did not get many chances to make himself prominent otherwise.
Dani Carvajal: 7.5
The Spaniard continues with his top form, and was once again instrumental in both attack and defense. He worked well with Brahim Diaz in the first half, and they both were a menace for the Napoli defense, and also kept Kvaratskhelia quiet in his own half.
Antonio Rudiger: 7.5
Was there to put out any fires that flared in the Madrid box, and enjoyed himself in one-on-one battles against competent Napoli attackers. Also got on the attacking side of the pitch often, and could have got his name on the score sheet if not for a good save from Meret in the second half.
David Alaba: 7.0
Assisted Jude Bellingham’s goal with a ball over the top of the defense. Was effective defensively as well, but needed Rudiger to save his blushes in the second half when his weak clearance got the ball to Napoli near Lunin’s goal.
Ferland Mendy: 6.0
The Frenchman was one of the more obscure players for Real Madrid, but contributed well to the defence. Put in a good cross on the 60-minute mark, that looked like a certain goal, but was fluffed by Joselu.
Toni Kroos: 7.5
Kroos’ passing range and precision was once again on full show in this match, especially in the first half when he constantly found Carvajal or Brahim Diaz on the right-hand side to create danger in the Napoli box.
Fede Valverde: 7.0
Was not the most notable player, but put in his regular energy in the midfield and contributed both to the attack and defence.
Dani Ceballos: 6.5
Helped Dani Carvajal keep opposition players like Kvaratskhelia quiet, and keep running throughout the pitch. Looked particularly sharp in the early phases of the game, but was sloppy at times, causing Madrid to lose balls unnecessarily.
Jude Bellingham: 9.0
Yet another goal for the Englishman, who just cannot stop scoring. His header gave Real Madrid the lead in the first half, and was mercurial throughout the match, also assisting Joselu for the last goal of the match. Had an injury scare on the 40th minute, but, fortunately, was able to finish the game without too many problems.
Brahim Diaz: 7.5
Brahim impressed once again as he got another start in Vinicius’ absence. Created the first goal finished by Rodrygo Goes. His skills and agility helped Real Madrid escape Napoli’s press effectively, and also get into good countering positions on the transition.
Rodrygo Goes: 8.5
Rodrygo continues with his hot scoring form as he scores another signature goal, beating several Napoli defenders to get the ball in the back of the net. Combined well with Bellingham and Brahim to create beautifully crafted attacking moves throughout the first half.
