Zinedine Zidane suffered his first defeat (2-1) since he took over the job after Solari’s dismissal. It was the first difficult clash and Los Blancos gave another poor image with many players out of shape. This is the 9th defeat in La Liga and the 15th in the season, one of the worst campaigns in the history of the club. These two months until May will be very long.
The French manager trusted the more experienced players and some of them showed again that they are not able to play in a great club like Real Madrid. This is the case of Marcelo, whose performance was terribly poor again. Lucas Vázquez or Toni Kroos were also far from their level. Meanwhile, Bale or Isco started this time from the bench.
Los Blancos controlled the game and had the possession, whereas Valencia waited in their box. Marcelino García Toral, Valencia’s manager, like to play in this way, so they were really comfortable. Real Madrid didn’t create a single chance during the whole game, whereas Valencia was able to score in the 35th minute thanks to a shot by Guedes. Before the half-time they could have scored the second one, but Valencia missed several chances.
Real Madrid were unable to react and create danger. Again, some important player in the attacking line was needed, but this is Florentino’s work for the summer. Zidane introduced many offensive changes with Mariano Díaz, Bale or Isco. It didn’t matter. It was Valencia scoring again in the 83rd minute closing the game with a header by Garay from a corner kick. There was only time for Benzema to score the goal in the last play of the game from another corner kick. The Frenchman is one of the few positive news during this season.
The worst thing about this defeat is that it’s no longer surprising. Los Blancos are used to lose in this season and the supporters are no longer interested in the games. They are only waiting for important signings in the summer transfer window, giving all the hope to Zinedine Zidane.
