Real Madrid won a crucial match in Istanbul. Zidane’s team could score an early goal, and they could keep the lead till the end of the game. Now Real Madrid is in second place.
Pre-match preparations
Zidane met with journalists on Monday. French coach said that it’s essential to think about the future and forget the match against Mallorca. As you know, Los Blancos lost the first match of the season in La Liga on Saturday night. Whites could not score a goal while they played without six players of the starting lineup.
Galatasaray players were very motivated as they could get a chance for the playoffs. Turkish club lost the last match against PSG in the second round of the Champions League, but they hoped for a suitable game against Los Merengues.
1st half of the game
Zidane had lots of options for different attacking line. Frenchman started with Rodrygo on the right side and Hazard on the left side. As always, Karim Benzema was the center forward. The most prominent news was indeed the return of Toni Kroos. German player could not help Los Blancos against Mallorca as he returned after the international break with an injury.
Toni Kroos played his 100th match against Galatasaray. German midfielder scored a beautiful goal, and he was the main leader of Real on the field.
1st half was entertaining to watch. There was no midfield competition, and both teams could attack without any problems. Galatasaray had two genuine moments in the first half, but Courtois was excellent and saved both moments. Real Madrid’s goalkeeper had a perfect match as he denied all shots of Galatasaray.
Real Madrid was very unbeaten on counter-attacks. Los Blancos scored a goal from counter-attacks when Hazard dribbled through two defenders and gave assist to Toni Kroos.
2nd half of the match
Real Madrid had eight shots on target in the second half but could not score. Eden Hazard had a 100% chance to score, but he could not put the ball in the net.
Hazard and Rodrygo’s due was very successful. Brazilian youngster did everything to impress fans and coaching staff. That’s why Zidane has not substituted youngster till the 80th minute.