By Daily Sports on November 4, 2018

Julen Lopetegui had, understandably, decided Madrid’s B team was the best place for Vinicius to settle but with every chance missed, the youngster’s reputation has swelled.

The 40 million-euro signing from Flamengo started as Madrid thrashed Melilla in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday but those were opponents from the Spanish third tier. This was Solari’s first proper test.

Lopetegui had repeatedly bemoaned a lack of luck too during his bad run and even that appeared to turn in Solari’s favour. Vinicius’ shot cannoned in off Olivas between Valladolid twice hitting the crossbar and Karim Benzema winning a dubious late penalty.

“When the ball won’t go in you have to keep calm,” Ramos said. “You have to ignore the uncertainty that is created. Finally, we have a positive result for our confidence.”

There were whistles at half-time from the home crowd, and during the second half as well, but cheers, perhaps of relief, at the end.

Gareth Bale was not on the pitch to hear them after he had been replaced in the 71st minute with the team still searching for a goal.

Madrid, however, head into Wednesday’s Champions League game against Viktoria Plzen with their first win in six league games, as well as their own confidence boosted and their coach’s momentum enhanced.

“This is an experienced group, not a bunch of kids,” Solari said. “They have found themselves too.”

His team had started well. Their best chance of the first half arrived in the third minute, Marco Asensio slipping in Karim Benzema, who dragged his finish wide of the far post.

Bale, Casemiro and Benzema all went close with headers but Valladolid survived. Then, as Madrid faded, they took control.

Antonito was sent clear but lifted his finish over both Thibaut Courtois and the crossbar. Enes Unal nipped in front Nacho but headed wide from six yards. (SuperSport)

•Photo shows Real Madrid players 

Source Daily Sports

Posted November 4, 2018

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