Levante played host to current La Liga champions Real Madrid for what was both sides fourth league game fo the season. Although, in a neutral venue, the match took place in Villareal’s stadium Estadio de la Cerámica as Levante’s stadium is currently being re-developed.
An unlikely but top-class finish from Vinícius Júnior in the 16th minute, picking up a loose ball from a set-piece, to finish high in the corner gave the visitors the 0-1 lead. The second and final goal of the game came in the dying embers of extra-time when Karim Benzema converted from a counter-attack as Levante were pushing hard for the equaliser. Zinedine Zidane’s side was very fortunate at both ends of the field to come away with all three points and a clean sheet. Los Blancos now sit top of the La Liga table after four games played.
The tactical analysis below looks at some key tactics and talking points around this intriguing fixture. Our analysis looks at the most prominent aspects of both sides performance as well as looking at how both managers set their sides up to get success.
Lineups
Levante: 4-4-2
Paco López side had a big test, but they did not shy away from the challenge or the ball. Yes, the Granotas played for counter-attacks at the most opportune times; however, when the 11 men of Madrid were in front of them, they had the courage and intention to build through the thirds to attack from wide areas.
In the defensive phase, Levante formed a low-block to suppress the Madrid attack sometimes offering six players to the backline. While in the attacking phase, Levante would push both full-backs into the final third to supply crosses to both centre-forwards and attacking midfielders.
