The Goal That Kept Real Madrid Alive
The Truth That Dawned Late on Ancelotti
The savior of the Italian coach in the final stretch of the season, in a match resembling a final, was someone who may have faced the most injustice from the technical staff this season.
According to “Varzesh3,” Real Madrid’s pre-final was sealed by Güler, a player who has always been under scrutiny. The Whites’ victory prolonged the La Liga title race and was beneficial for Ancelotti in multiple ways. First, he may now realize—perhaps a bit late—that his bench is stronger than he has utilized throughout the season.
Güler, on a night when Vinícius was not at his best, delivered a brilliant first half for his team. Unlike other occasions, Real appeared motivated and played attacking football, pressing Bordonales’ 4-5-1 system with depth and dynamism. Güler was influential in midfield, understood the role of an interior midfielder, and executed with precision. In attack, Vinícius and Endrick excelled in penetrating runs, moving effectively between the central defender and the winger.
Additionally, Real Madrid showcased their game with Lucas Vázquez and Fran García on the flanks. Ancelotti’s team was so dominant that Bordonales had to repeatedly reposition players like Géné, Juan Iglesias, or Bernat to compensate for the tactical disarray of the Blues. Real Madrid appeared serious, active, and decisive, unaffected by lineup changes. At the moment of maximum pressure, the substitutes delivered.
The second half, however, was entirely different. Getafe regrouped and intensified their pressure. Bordonales’ tactical switch to a 4-4-2 with two strikers and the introduction of players like Coba made the hosts’ attack sharper, more aggressive, and direct. Here, Real’s weaknesses surfaced; the team slowed down excessively, as if walking on a tightrope.
Getafe came close to Courtois’ goal, and Ancelotti’s substitutions failed to alter the game’s momentum. Camavinga’s performance in the defensive midfield role was particularly disappointing. His mistakes in critical areas and risky ball-carrying reduce his chances of securing a permanent spot in Real’s midfield. It’s no surprise that Ancelotti often sees him as a full-back in finals, though an injury in this match may rule him out. Fortunately for Camavinga and Real, Courtois is always ready to rescue the team. His saves were once again vital in keeping Real in the title race. And in the Copa del Rey, he will undoubtedly be the fixed choice.