Player ratings for Real Madrid vs Las Palmas: Brahim Diaz replaced Jude Bellingham to bring Los Blancos back to winning ways

Player ratings for Real Madrid vs Las Palmas: Brahim Diaz replaced Jude Bellingham to bring Los Blancos back to winning ways

The former AC Milan player showed that Carlo Ancelotti’s team can survive without stars, at least against smaller teams in La Liga.

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Brahim Diaz replaced the resting Jude Bellingham admirably, scoring Real Madrid’s opener and proving a creative nuisance in midfield as they comfortably beat ambitious Las Palmas on Wednesday. The attacking midfielder, making his first Madrid La Liga appearance since 2019, proved that his side at least have a viable alternative when Bellingham needs a rest.

Madrid came close early when Rodrygo poked goalkeeper Alvaro Valles in the palm of his hand after the home team regained the ball in the Las Palmas penalty area. There were other chances too, with Joselu denied twice in succession and Brahim wasted in a one-on-one situation.

But the midfielder remained calm in first-half stoppage time, firing a shot into the top corner after a clearance from Lucas Vazquez. Madrid then doubled their advantage early in the second half, with Joselu connecting Rodrygo’s cross into the top corner after a graceful move.

Things calmed down after Brahim’s substitution just before the hour mark, when Los Blancos inevitably created less and had fewer chances. However, they picked up a vital three points in La Liga to leapfrog Barcelona, ​​but remain behind surprise leaders – and their opponents this Saturday – Girona.

GOAL evaluates Real Madrid players at Santiago Bernabéu…

Goalkeeper and defense

Kepa Arrizabalaga (October 7):

I don’t have much to do. Go get a blank piece of paper.

Nachos (6/10):

Doesn’t pose much of an attacking threat on the right wing and looks much more comfortable at centre-back.

Antonio Rüdiger (8/10):

A very composed performance at the heart of the defence. After starting the season as third choice, he could be the only suitable option going forward.

David Alaba (6/10):

Snake before coming off the field injured just before halftime. A worrying question.

Ferland Mendy (6/10):

Preferred over Fran Garcia and solid, though not great.

Midfielder

Aurélien Tchouameni (7/10):

Solid in midfield, completing 90% of passes. Also made some nice tackles.

Federico Valverde (7/10):

His acceleration through the midfield is invaluable and he also distributes well. Fade a bit after moving to the right.

Eduardo Camavinga (7/10):

Constantly getting involved and making lots of runs from midfield. Completed the most dribbles in the game.

Brahim Díaz (8/10):

Intervene to give Bellingham a rest. He missed several chances early on before scoring a good goal. A solid performance underlined its credentials for new opportunities.

Attack

Rodrygo (August 10):

Active in the penalty area, he assisted Joselu to score. His understanding with the big striker is constantly improving. It’s even better to play alongside Vinicius.

Joselu (July 10):

Three attempts were brilliantly saved in the first half. Scored with the first attempt after the break – a deserved goal.

Sub and manager

Lucas Vázquez (6/10):

Brought in to treat the injured Alaba. Created first in Madrid.

Dani Ceballos (7/10):

Made his first appearance of the season after struggling with a knock. Make an excellent 25 minute show.

Vinicius Jr (6/10):

Came back from injury quicker than expected and looked a bit rusty.

Toni Kroos (6/10):

I played soccer for about 20 minutes.

Fran Garcia (7/10):

I came when the game was won. It’s better when he doesn’t have to defend as much.

Video credits: Real Madrid website

Carlo Ancelotti (8/10):

Made a bold call on the Bellingham bench, but Madrid had had enough of the win. He will certainly be delighted with the impact of Brahim, as well as the promising arrival of Vinicius. Madrid did not play really well and still won 6/7 matches.