When visiting Athletic Bilbao, Real Madrid was determined to win all 3 points to widen the gap and put pressure on second-placed Barcelona. However, this is not an easy task because the home team also needs 3 points to nurture the hope of winning a ticket to the European Cup.
The goal is clear, the two teams enter the match without any trade-offs. Real with their superior force dominated in the first minutes. On the other hand, Bilbao defend with concentration, minimizing the combined balls of other teams. Gradually regaining control of the game, Gaizka Garitano's students pushed up their formation vertically and pushed the hot spot to the midfield.
In general, in the first half, both Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao did not create many clear opportunities. On the home side, striker Inaki Williams was the most dangerous explosive player when he continuously overcame Militao and tested Courtois. Meanwhile, the "White Vultures" attack mainly with the mobility of Asensio and Rodrygo. However, all were weak in finishing.
The balanced game continued until the beginning of the second half. Thanks to Modric's regulation skills, Real Madrid had more possession. However, the away team mainly rotated the ball in the midfield area but could not break Bilbao's deep defense. The attack with the trio of Asensio, Benzema and Rodrygo could not find the communication and coordination as effectively as desired.
In a deadlock, Real unexpectedly received a " Ngoai" from the opposing team's defender. In the 72nd minute, Garcia fouled Marcelo in the penalty area, forcing Bilbao to award a penalty. On the 11m mark, Ramos made no mistake, easily opening the score for the away team.
This was the 34-year-old defender's 5th goal since returning to La Liga. Ramos's scoring record is even superior to Lionel Messi (3 goals) and Luis Suarez (2 goals) in the same period.
After conceding, Bilbao tried to push up their formation in search of an equalizer but had difficulty approaching Courtois' goal. having difficulty in attack, the home team almost conceded a goal when Benzema had a chance to face Unai Simon in the 88th minute. Unfortunately, the "Lazy crow"'s shot was too weak.
In the end, Real won 1-0 for the third consecutive match and temporarily widened the gap with Barca to 7 points. Coach Zidane and his team are finishing very well and have an advantage in the race to the La Liga championship.
