Match Ratings:
Here are the match ratings for some key players from the game:
Vinicius: 8.5
Joselu: 6.3
Bellingham: 7.9
Camavinga: 7.0
Toni Kroos: 8.2
Luk Modric: 7.2
Fran Garcia: 6.5
Nacho Fernandez: 6.8
Rudiger: 6.8
Lucas Vazquez: 7.2
Thibaut Courtois: 6.6
Alaba: 6.6
Carvajal: 6.6
Militao: 7.0
Valverde: 6.8
Tchouameni: 6.7
Rodrygo: 6.6
Brahim Diaz: 6.5
Nico Paz: 6.3
Alvaro Odriozola: 6.2
Match Overview:
Carlo Ancelotti once again opted for the diamond formation, but significant changes were made to the starting XI. Joselu partnered with Vini Jr up front, while Modric and Kroos started in midfield. Tchouameni received some well-deserved rest in the Orlando heat. Unfortunately, Real Madrid conceded early in the game, with Moise Kean and Timothy Weah finding the back of the net before the first hydration break.
Real Madrid’s Response:
Real Madrid showed resilience after the hydration break and created numerous opportunities. Vinicius Jr. brought Madrid back into the game with a calmly finished goal from a great counterattack. The team raised the intensity and overwhelmed Juventus with a flurry of quality sequences and shots. Crosses into the box became frequent, with Bellingham and Joselu stationed as target men. Wojciech Szczęsny’s heroic saves kept Juventus ahead at halftime with a 2-1 lead.
Second-Half Battle:
Madrid maintained their pressure in the second half, while Juventus sought to become more physically imposing. Ancelotti made substitutions, bringing fresh legs to maintain the offensive onslaught. Valverde’s audacious effort hit the crossbar, showcasing Madrid’s determination to equalize. However, Los Blancos lacked the final edge to level the score. Vinicius Jr was substituted for Brahim in the 77th minute, and Ancelotti also gave some minutes to Odriozola in the last preseason game. A late goal from Dusan Vlahovic secured a 3-1 victory for Juventus.
Closing Notes from Preseason:
Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurelian Tchouameni impressed during preseason, proving their readiness to be undisputed starters. Vinicius Jr. faces a challenge adapting to a new position, but he remains a potential standout player on the roster and was Madrid’s top scorer in preseason. Joselu scored a remarkable goal against United but struggled in subsequent matches. Brahim’s limited involvement hints at a potentially reduced role this season. Fran Garcia’s increased involvement in the attack as a left-back is refreshing, but concerns persist regarding the contribution from the right-back position.
Real Madrid’s preseason has offered glimpses of promise and areas to address. As they head into the new season, Ancelotti and the team will focus on building upon their strengths and addressing weaknesses. Fans eagerly await the official start of the season, anticipating the rise of new stars and the team’s pursuit of success.
