Real Madrid 2-0 Las Palmas: Diaz and Joselu on target
Real Madrid bounced back from their weekend defeat at Madrid Derby by rivals Atletico, as Brahim Diaz and Joselu were on target against Las Palmas at the Bernabeu.
The victory 2-0 in the La Liga 2023/24 mid-week fixture over the newly promoted side was just enough for Los Blancos to edge over Barcelona in the standings. However, Girona took top by better Goal Difference, thanks to a close win against Villarreal.
Real Madrid 2-0 Las Palmas – Highlights
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Aiming for the top league standings, Carlo Ancelotti rested Jude Bellingham. He counted on Rodrygo, Joselu, and Diaz to deliver, which paid off well for the Italian manager.
Initially, Las Palmas goalkeeper Alvaro Valles denied Real, making seven saves and denying a frustrated Joselu several times.
But Real finally broke the deadlock with the last kick of the first half as Diaz’s effort found the top corner.
Joselu would then get the goal he deserved after the break, glancing in a header just moments before he was brought off for the returning Vinicius Jr.
As it was, Girona won 2-1 at Villarreal, meaning this year’s surprise package has overtaken Barcelona to top the table, with Real up to second.
And for added intrigue, Girona host Real next on Saturday. The positions could change by game, and the El Clasico is crucial for Madrid and Barca.
Ancelotti left Jude Bellingham and Luka Modric on the bench against Las Palmas in preparation for that unlikely top-of-the-table showdown.
Joselu and Brahim showed their values
Spanish striker Joselu proved he is more than just a back-up choice in the attack. By banging against Las Palmas, Joselu becomes the first player to score in his first four home games with Los Blancos in La Liga history of the 21st century.
This was the third home league match in a row where he has found the target. He missed some massive chances in the first half against Las Palmas, but eventually, he delivered, and that was all that mattered for a striker.
Meanwhile, returning from a successful spell far from home, Brahim got his first start for Madrid since May 2019, and it used to be with Zinedine Zidane on the hot seat.
Keeping on with his forms, both would ensure their places in the XI for more to come.
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TOM is a dedicated soccer writer whose words come alive on the page, mirroring the electric energy of the pitch. With a keen eye for detail and an unbridled love for the sport
