Player Ratings: Real Madrid's Copa Del Rey Triumph
Real Madrid's thrilling Copa del Rey victory over Osasuna marked a significant moment in their season, a crucial trophy adding to their already impressive haul. But beyond the final scoreline, the individual performances deserve closer scrutiny. This detailed analysis provides player ratings, highlighting both stellar displays and areas needing improvement, offering a comprehensive review of Real Madrid's Copa del Rey triumph.
Goalkeepers
Andriy Lunin (7.5/10): While not called upon to make numerous spectacular saves, Lunin demonstrated calmness and composure throughout the match. His distribution was accurate, initiating attacks effectively, and his positioning was generally excellent, limiting Osasuna's chances. While not a show-stopping performance, it was a solid, reliable display perfectly suited to the occasion. His clean sheet is a testament to his consistent performance.
Defenders
Dani Carvajal (8/10): Carvajal was a tireless force down the right flank. His attacking contributions were crucial, providing width and delivering dangerous crosses into the box. Defensively, he was solid, winning aerial duels and making timely tackles, showcasing his all-around quality. His experience shone through, particularly in the latter stages of the game when Osasuna pushed forward.
Éder Militão (7.8/10): Militão was a rock at the heart of the Real Madrid defense. He was dominant in the air, winning almost every header, and displayed impressive composure under pressure. His ability to read the game and intercept passes prevented Osasuna from creating clear-cut opportunities. A strong, reliable performance from a key member of the backline.
David Alaba (7.5/10): Alaba's versatility was again on display, offering stability and composure in defense. His passing range was exceptional, dictating play from the back and launching attacks effectively. While not as prominent as Militão, his consistent performance was a vital factor in Real Madrid's defensive solidity. His experience helped guide the younger players around him.
Ferland Mendy (7/10): Mendy provided a solid defensive presence on the left side, diligently tracking his opponent and making crucial interceptions. His attacking contributions were less frequent than Carvajal’s, but his defensive reliability was a crucial aspect of Real Madrid's overall success. He maintained his discipline and consistently performed his defensive duties effectively.
Midfielders
Luka Modrić (8.5/10): The veteran maestro orchestrated Real Madrid's midfield with his typical elegance and efficiency. His passing was sublime, unlocking the Osasuna defense with incisive through balls and creating chances for his teammates. His experience was invaluable, maintaining composure under pressure and guiding the team's rhythm. A truly captivating performance that highlighted his enduring class.
Toni Kroos (8/10): Kroos provided his usual impeccable passing accuracy and game control. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game was essential in stifling Osasuna's attacks. His long-range passing created several dangerous opportunities, demonstrating his ability to create chances from deep. A solid and dependable performance from a player who consistently performs at the highest level.
Federico Valverde (8.2/10): Valverde's tireless energy and box-to-box contributions were crucial. His stamina allowed him to dominate the midfield battle, winning back possession consistently and driving forward with purpose. His powerful running and late runs into the box posed a constant threat. A physically dominant display from a player who never stops working.
Eduardo Camavinga (7.8/10): Camavinga's youthful energy and dynamism injected pace and intensity into Real Madrid's midfield. His pressing disrupted Osasuna's play, and his ability to win back possession was crucial in denying the opposition opportunities. He showed remarkable maturity for his age, consistently performing his defensive and attacking duties effectively.
Forwards
Vinicius Junior (9/10): Vinicius Junior was a constant threat down the left flank. His pace, dribbling skills, and direct running consistently troubled Osasuna's defense. While he didn’t find the back of the net, his contributions to the attack were immense, creating chances and forcing defenders into mistakes. A truly electrifying performance full of dazzling displays.
Karim Benzema (8.8/10): Benzema's class shone through, showcasing his intelligent movement, clinical finishing, and exceptional link-up play. His goal was a moment of brilliance, demonstrating his composure and ability to find the back of the net under pressure. He played a pivotal role in the team's success, acting as both a goal-scorer and a creator.
Rodrygo Goes (7.5/10): Rodrygo's pace and direct running caused problems for the Osasuna defense. His movement off the ball was excellent, creating space for his teammates, and his energetic contribution to the attack was a valuable asset. He consistently linked up well with his fellow attackers, providing a useful outlet in the final third.
Substitutes
Marco Asensio (7/10): Asensio added a spark when he entered the field, providing fresh energy in attack and contributing positively to the team's offensive play. His presence helped maintain Real Madrid's intensity, making a positive contribution during his time on the pitch.
Dani Ceballos (6.5/10): Ceballos provided midfield stability and offered a calm presence in the final stages of the game, ensuring the team managed the game effectively to secure the victory. He helped to maintain control and possession in the closing stages of the match.
Nacho (6/10): Nacho’s late appearance provided a solid defensive presence, adding experience and reliability to the backline, ensuring the victory wasn’t jeopardized.
Conclusion: A Team Triumph
Real Madrid's Copa del Rey victory was a collective effort, showcasing the depth and quality within their squad. While individual performances stood out, it was the collective synergy and teamwork that ultimately secured the trophy. This victory serves as further evidence of Real Madrid’s strength and their ability to compete for major honors across multiple competitions. The Copa del Rey win was a team triumph, built upon individual brilliance and collective determination. Each player played their part in securing the coveted trophy.