How Real Madrid struggled out wide in record-breaking Clasico defeat

Three home defeats in a row for the first time since 2004. Falling behind Barcelona in the win count between the sides for the first time in 87 years. Even though there was little to play for in this Clasico with La Liga title hopes slim to say the least, defeat to Barcelona really hurt for Real Madrid on Saturday evening.

It took just the one goal to decide the game, even though Real Madrid were out for revenge after being eliminated in the Copa del Rey semi-finals by a Barcelona thrashing at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday. That strike came from Ivan Rakitic with a delicate chip over Thibaut Courtois just before the half-hour mark with what proved to be the winner in a 1-0 win.

Our tactical analysis will use statistics to identify what key points Real Madrids Santiago Solari can take from the game.

Lineups

Real Madrid made two changes to their team from Wednesdays defeat, recalling first choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois in Keylor Navas place as expected. Gareth Bale was also selected ahead of Lucas Vazquez in attack in a real statement of intent. Perhaps notably, Isco was also deployed from the bench in his longest league appearance since early January with the team going for the win.

Ernesto Valverde looked to regain control of midfield by bringing in Arthur to the Barcelona midfield, at the expense of Nelson Semedo, with Sergi Roberto dropping to right-back.

R

Keep Reading TFA With A Free 7 Day Trial

Login if you have a TFA subscription

Try TFA Risk Free For 7 Days

Full Access To TFA Articles

New Content 7 Days

Expert Insights

TFA Podcast Access

7 Day Free Trial

Money Back Guarantee

Subscribe For Free