Real Madrid’s goal scoring momentum was halted by Europa League winners Villareal as they held the home side to a 0-0 draw. Madrid remain unbeaten in La Liga, but have lost their five-match winning streak in domestic competitions.
Neither side was able to create anything very meaningful over the course of the ninety minutes. However, Thibaut Courtois made a key save before halftime to deny Villareal the chance to go ahead and get the advantage heading into the game. Had Arnaut Danjuma gotten the better of the Belgian keeper, the match would have opened up significantly in the second half.
18 of Madrid’s 21 league goals so far this season have come in the second half. But despite their record of scoring in the second period, Carlo Ancelotti’s men were unable to break the deadlock. Geronimo Rulli and Thibaut Courtois both walked off the pitch with clean sheets and a point each to their teams.
Fede Valverde started at right back while Marco Asensio earned another starting spot for Madrid alongside Modric and Casemiro. Ancelotti was impressed by the Uruguayan and his versatility to play in defense, filling in for Dani Carvajal.
Ancelotti acknowledged that Madrid were unable to create enough chances and pressure on the opposition and that they were not at their best yesterday night. They will have a chance to win again in the Champions League next, as they take on Sheriff Tiraspol. Villareal, on the other hand, travel to England to face Manchester United in a replay of the Europa League final.
