Real Madrid vs Sporting Gijon : Player Ratings

As Real Madrid began their La Liga campaign under new manager Rafa Benitez, they came across a spirited and newly promoted Sporting Gijon. The frustrating 0-0 draw means both Barcelona and Atletico Madrid have a two point lead over the Los Blancos right after the first game. Let’s have  a look at the player ratings from the match:

Navas — 6.5

Made some decent clearances as the opponents threatened from set-pieces. He was beaten by a superb header by Sanabria, but luckily the ball hit the cross-bar and dropped just on the goal line.

Danilo — 7

A decent performance from the right-back as he came forward on many occasions. But did not offer anything extra than what Carvajal does.

Ramos — 7.5

A solid performance by Real Madrid captain, orchestrating the back line, he made some important challenges.

Varane — 7.5

It looks like we are going to see young Frenchman more this season as he once again showed his true potential. He used his pace to good effect and tracked down the opponents with ease.

Marcelo — 7.5

As usual an energetic performance by the Brazilian as he was up and down the field throughout the match. But couldn’t provide the killer cross or ball, that makes him such a threat.

Kroos — 6

A disappointing performance by the German. He kept the possession well but failed to deliver the final ball and often looked clueless.

Modric — 6.5

Playing a competitive match since April, Modric played his heart out. Twisting and turning away from the defenders, he tried to direct the game, but couldn’t execute it properly. A wonderful through ball to Bale almost led to a goal in the first half.

Isco — 6

Tried quite a few shots from distance and did well to get into those positions, but failed to test the goalkeeper apart from a weak effort that was straight into the keeper’s hands. He lacked the vision to give better passes to teammates and uncharacteristically lost the ball a few times.

Bale — 6

Another forward who could have done better, was involved throughout the match and almost scored when he got past the keeper and tried a shot from a tight angle. But yet again, couldn’t provide anything special to break the deadlock.

Ronaldo — 6.5

Frustrating night for the Portuguese. Involved more by the defense, often tracking back to own half, Ronaldo hit the first shot on target by a Real Madrid player. Also forced a superb save out of Cuellar late in the game. Missed two free-kicks from dangerous positions, as both hit the wall. A below par performance by his standards.

Jese — 5.5

Started brightly but slowly faded as the match progressed. Surprisingly picked over James Rodriguez, he struggled to find spaces. A poor performance by the Spaniard and needs to improve if he wants to keep his place in the side.