Real Madrid wrapped up a comfortable victory over Racing in Santander, with Kylian Mbappe, Yan Diomande, Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler making the difference before half-time.
The penalty awarded to Mbappe appeared generous, but Racing would probably have struggled to hold out even without the spot-kick. Real Madrid’s attacking pace proved too much for the hosts, with the result effectively settled by the 36th minute.
Here is a look at the Real Madrid players who made the biggest impact in Santander. Euro-football.ru assessed the team’s performance using a subjective 10-point rating system.
Real Madrid’s leading performers
Kylian Mbappe and Yan Diomande – 7.5
Mbappe won the penalty and then converted it himself, scoring the winning goal past Aguirresabala. There were clear doubts about the decision to award the spot-kick, but that was not Mbappe’s responsibility, and he performed at roughly the same level as Diomande.
Diomande also continued his run of scoring for Real Madrid. He was particularly active on the left and offered another lively attacking display.
Jude Bellingham – 8.5
Bellingham remains an outstanding source of energy across the entire attacking line. He took his chance brilliantly after receiving a pass from Guler and was involved again for the third goal, directing the ball towards Diomande.
The England midfielder was also highly effective in the physical side of the game. He won eight challenges, made two tackles and carried the ball successfully past opponents on four occasions.
Arda Guler – 9.0
Guler continues to operate as the creative centre of Real Madrid’s attacks. His delivery was consistently dangerous both from set pieces and open play, with many of the team’s best passes coming from the Turkey international.
In 67 minutes, Guler created three goalscoring opportunities and completed six key passes. He played Bellingham through on goal, created further chances for both Bellingham and Mbappe, and supplied the cross for the third goal.
Guler also threatened twice more from set pieces. His passing repeatedly opened up Racing’s defence and helped Real Madrid establish decisive control of the match before the break.