With a nice header, Antonio Rudiger allowed Real to start their calendar year with a victory.
Real Madrid fulfilled its duty this Wednesday during the reception of Mallorca on behalf of the 19e La Liga day. But it was not without difficulty. The Merengue had to wait until the last quarter of an hour and a victorious gesture from one of their defenders to open the scoring.
The union minimum for Real
The solution came from Antonio Rudiger. At the 78e minute, the German defender found the fault by brilliantly taking over a corner from Luka Modric. A powerful header, which left the Mallorcan goalkeeper with no chance.
Antonio Rudiger’s teammates let him have it after his opening goal for Real Madrid 😆 pic.twitter.com/vVc65R7KAc
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) January 3, 2024
Previously, Real suffered to bring danger into the opposing area. Only Vinicius Jr, for his big return to competition, managed to make the visitors shiver with an attempt at the 20e. Uninspired up front, the Madrilenians were also feverish behind, with several clear chances conceded (43e and 54e).
The Merengue trembled until the end, and that is perhaps what prevented their coach from bringing in Arda Guler. The young Turk was sent to warm-up, but he was unable to take his first steps in the Spanish championship.
In the end, the essentials were still acquired by the Ancelotti gang. By winning during his 1e At the end of the year, Real takes a three-point lead at the top of the standings. While of course waiting for the exit of his runner-up Girona against Atlético.
