Real Madrid 2-0 Granada: Diaz and Rodrygo secure top spot in La Liga

Brahim Diaz emerged as the savior for Real Madrid by joyfully netting the team’s inaugural goal in their LaLiga EA Sports encounter against Granada CF. The game unfolded at Madrid’s Estadio Santiago Bernabeu in Spain on December 2, 2023.

Real Madrid ascended back to the summit of La Liga following a triumphant 2-0 win against Granada on Saturday evening. Carlo Ancelotti’s squad required these three points to surpass Girona, who had previously secured a 2-1 victory over Valencia earlier in the day. Real’s turning point arrived when Toni Kroos delivered an exceptional long pass, which Brahim Diaz skillfully converted by elegantly lifting the ball over Andre Ferreira, who had replaced the goalkeeper. Nevertheless, despite their control over the game during the initial period, Real was unable to extend their advantage, leading to Jude Bellingham growing increasingly irritated with the referee’s judgments.

In the latter half, Rodrygo took advantage of Bellingham’s saved attempt to increase Real’s lead. Despite their persistent offensive efforts, they were unable to score another goal. Real Madrid is scheduled to play against Real Betis this coming Saturday, and Granada will be facing Athletic Club the day after.

A noteworthy aspect of the match was Real Madrid’s advantage in having a deep squad. Although Rodrygo, Brahim Diaz, and Joselu all contributed significantly, the team heavily depends on Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr. to create an impact when they are fully fit. Unfortunately, Bellingham had a disappointing evening due to unfavorable calls made by the referee. However, Brahim Diaz’s exceptional performance persisted, Joselu displayed relentless effort as the leading striker, and Rodrygo ensured that Real obtained the three points. Despite their longing for the return of their top players, they can appreciate the valuable contributions made by their other forwards currently.

Brahim Diaz was awarded the title of match MVP due to his crucial contribution in scoring goals. Following his return from AC Milan, Diaz has openly discussed the valuable insights he gained from Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Although he may not possess the same level of fame and reputation as the Swedish icon, his exceptional technical skills and ability to score goals exhibited resemblances between the two.

Here are the individual ratings for the players in the match:

Real Madrid: Lunin (6), Carvajal (6), Rudiger (6), Alaba (6), Mendy (6), Valverde (7), Kroos (7), Bellingham (7), Brahim (8), Rodrygo (7), Joselu (6). Substitutes: Lucas (6), Ceballos (6), Nico Paz (6), Gonzalo (6). Granada scores a goal in the 26th minute. REAL MADRID 1-0 GRANADA – BRAHIM FINDS THE BACK OF THE NET – Brahim Diaz demonstrates his scoring prowess by netting his second goal of the season through a brilliant maneuver. Diaz cleverly infiltrates the Granada defense, receives a precise pass from Kroos, and elegantly lifts the ball over the goalkeeper.

42′ – BELLINGHAM SEIZES AN OPPORTUNITY – Bellingham capitalizes on a flick from Brahim and charges towards the goal, but his low strike narrowly evades the post.

57′ – GOAL! REAL MADRID 2-0 GRANADA – RODRYGO CONVERTS – Brahim delivers an exceptional pass into the penalty area, Bellingham’s attempt is saved, but Rodrygo is present to conclude the play and extend Real’s advantage. 74′ – VALVERDE OPPORTUNITY – Bellingham assists Valverde with a subtle pass, yet Ferreira thwarts his deflected shot, leading to a corner.

90′ – PAZ OPPORTUNITY – Paz endeavors to strike a volley towards the upper corner, but it veers off target, missing the goal.