Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso made the decision to start Vinícius Júnior on the bench for Sunday's La Liga match against Oviedo, but the Brazilian star proved to be a decisive factor in the team's 3-0 victory after coming on in the second half.
Vinícius set up one goal and scored another as Real Madrid defeated an Oviedo side playing their first top-flight home match in 24 years. Kylian Mbappé scored the other two goals for Madrid.
"Vini came on and played very well. He was decisive in scoring the two goals that gave us peace of mind," Alonso said. "We need everyone—the starters and the players coming off the bench. There will be plenty of games for everyone to play."
Madrid is one of three clubs with a perfect record after two matches. Villarreal currently holds the top spot after a dominant 5-0 win over Girona. Elsewhere, Osasuna defeated Valencia 1-0, and Real Sociedad came from behind to draw 2-2 at home with Espanyol.
Rodrygo started in Vinícius's place, his first competitive start since Madrid's Club World Cup debut in June. The visitors dominated the first half, with Rodrygo creating several chances. However, it was Mbappé who broke the deadlock eight minutes before halftime, masterfully controlling a pass from Arda Güler before turning and firing a low shot into the far corner.
With Madrid taking 17 shots in the first half compared to Oviedo's one, another goal seemed inevitable. It came with seven minutes left in the match when Vinícius, who had replaced Rodrygo in the 63rd minute, stole possession in midfield and assisted Mbappé for his second goal. Vinícius sealed the 3-0 win in stoppage time with a well-taken finish after a counterattack.
Alonso also praised Rodrygo's performance, despite recent transfer speculation. "He had one-on-one situations and a few shots. Oviedo was playing very deep, and it was difficult to find that gap, but I did like his performance," Alonso said. "After last week, we needed everyone, and Rodrygo is an important part of the team."
0 Comments