When Real Madrid hosted Malaga at Bernabeu, many of their fans would have expected a straight victory and if possible, a whitewash. What happened on the day was completely unexpected.
Malaga, wallowing in the relegation waters brought their best game to Bernabeu. The first half was keenly contested as both sides saw three goals in the first half.
Karim Benzema started the five-goal thriller early on in the game before Diego Rolan equalizes within minutes. The Karem Benzema goal was his first in eight La Liga games and he was delighted to finally hit the back of the net.
It was Casemiro who restored Real’s lead in the 21st minute. This was a very entertaining game for the neutrals but for the traveling Malaga fans, it was not what they wanted. They eventually got their second of the game all thanks to Chory Castro’s long-range shot which beat Kiko Casilla in goal.
With the game heading for a draw, it was time for the big man for the big occasion to rise to the occasion. Cristiano Ronaldo did what he know how to do best as he scored from close range after Malaga’s goalkeeper, Roberto had saved his initial penalty. The goal gave Real Madrid the win on the day.
This might not have been the vintage Real Madrid but the win helped them close the gap on Barcelona to seven points before the Catalan fave Valencia in a top of the table clash.
When Real face Fuenlabrada next in the Copa del Rey, they might be fielding a less strong side but when they return to La Liga action next, they will be facing Athletic Bilbao at San Mames and will return their best players to the line up. A win at San Mames will be a very delightful one for Real Madrid.