Real Madrid 1-0 PSG – Talking Points

Real Madrid came out on top against Paris Saint Germain as 1-0 winners in the Champions League group stage on Matchday four. Madrid have now secured their qualification into the knockout phase of the tournament with that victory. The only goal of the match, which ended as a goalless draw in the French capital, was scored by Real Madrid defender Nacho. Here are the five major talking points from the match.

1) Angel di Maria At Santiago Bernabeu

When Di Maria left Real Madrid for Manchester United two years back, no one would have thought that he would have to face his former club so early. But after his lowly spell with the Red Devils, Di Maria moved to PSG. One of the most major talking points after this season’s Champions League group stage draw was this fixture. After having a forgetful night in France against Madrid, Di Maria once again stepped onto the Bernabeu pitch and lit up the stadium with a sublime performance. He was quick, his passing was very incisive and he was beating Madrid players at will. Di Maria gave a wonderful performance on his return to the Spanish capital, one that he will never forget.

2) PSG’s dominance over Madrid

At the end of a football match,the only thing that matters is the score line. Madrid got the all important victory against PSG on Tuesday night, but what is more important is the fact that they were totally outplayed by their opponents from France. PSG were terrific on the ball and should have scored at least five to six goals, but they missed some very good chances. They pressed hard, they were quick on the ball and they were excellent defensively. After going behind to an unlucky goal, the French side was again back on attack. This was the kind of match that Real Madrid – both the staff and the supporters – won’t forget about after their dismal display.

3) Another Injury Scare for Madrid

Real Madrid had another one of their players added to the long injury list – Marcelo. The Brazilian left-back had been in incredible form for Madrid this season, both offensively and defensively. He had led the team in the absence of Sergio Ramos and Pepe, and had done a great job so far. But his substitution at the half-hour mark was not the thing that Real Madrid fans would have wanted to see at the moment. Already deprived of the duties of James, Bale, Benzema and Carvajal, the Spanish side might just have to dig deep in these two weeks, as they prepare for the clasico, hoping that all these important players are fully fit in time.

4) The incredible and unlikeliest of goal

Marcelo’s injury meant that young defender Nacho got a chance to slot in at the left back position. As soon as he came on, he was in on goal to score the winner of the match. Toni Kroos tried a long shot on goal, which was wickedly deflected only to find Nacho in space. He finished it superbly from a very tight angle, with the goalkeeper Kevin Trapp far away from his goal. It was a howler from the young German goalkeeper, as he made a big mistake which cost his team the match. But taking nothing away from Nacho, his goal was a wonderful one, considering the angle on that shot. This is certainly the most memorable moment of Nacho’s career so far for Real Madrid.

5) Real Madrid qualify for the Round of 16

Real Madrid qualified for the knockout phase of the Champions League, after this big but scrappy victory against PSG. Only Manchester City have done the same so far, as Real Madrid still remain unbeaten this season. They are the only big-name team to still be unbeaten this season, with Bayern losing to Arsenal 2-0 on Matchday three of the Champions League. Much of the credit for that impressive run should be given to their in-form goalkeeper Keylor Navas. The Costa Rica captain has been awesome from the start of this season, and is expected to continue his good run for the Los Blancos. Madrid will hope to top the group as they have two matches left against a lowly Malmo side and weakened but dangerous Shakhtar.