Real Madrid defeated Shakhtar Donetsk 2-1 in the Champions League, with Karim Benzema netting a double. The home team were unfortunate to have not scored more, with a number of great chances coming their way.
Luka Modric had a brilliant opportunity in the early stages of the game. While the Ballon d’Or winner was fully expected to bury it from close range, he was denied by a great save from the goalkeeper. However, Anatolii Trubin would end up gifting a golden chance to the opposition.
The Ukraine U21 played out the ball, but Marlon Santos was pounced on by Vinicius Jr. The Brazilian successfully recovered the ball, and passed it to Karim Benzema, who tapped the ball into the net. The first goal was the 13-time Champions’ 1000th goal in European competition.
Shortly before half time, Fernando equalised for the visitors. Alan Patrick received a pass with his chest and set it up for his teammate, who got past his marker and launched an unstoppable effort past Thibaut Courtois. On the other side of the break, Karim Benzema would score to give Madrid the lead again.
Vinicius Jr found his striking partner yet again, and after some sublime play around the edge of the box, Benzema slotted the ball into the back of the net.
Real Madrid are now at the top of their table, with 9 points from 4 games. Their opponents, Shakhtar, are last in the table with 1 point from a possible 12.
