The first "serious" official match of the 2017- 2018 season that serves to kick-off European Football season & test properly both teams.
Manchester United started well & strong, while Real Madrid waited to find their rhythm. The battle was in the midfield from start to finish were the domination of the ball would be key. Real Madrid with Modric, Kroos & Casemiro have more talent & eventually took control of the situation moving Manchester United around & making them chase the ball. Add to this the coming into play of Isco who continuously broke the defensive lines, & the outcome was two goals by the 52nd min to Real Madrid:
- Casemiro 24th min (possibly offside, one has to mention)
- Isco 52nd min (one-two with Bale)
Manchester United made changes to their game, going for a more "English style" format with Fellaini upfront for the long crosses & Rashford for winger attacking incursions. The idea nearly paid off, not by Football but due to the tiring of Real Madrid players that allowed spaces & opportunities to appear. Both teams found theirs in certain moments: Real Madrid hit the bar when Bale found the shot, while Manchester missed some great chances.
The English found reward for their efforts when Lukaku drove home a Keylar Navas save that allowed the ball to bounce into the Strikers path to score in the 62nd min. Manchester United would have later chances, one being a very clear opportunity to Rashford that goalkeeper Navas deviated which would have brought a draw.
Real Madrid put fresh legs onto the pitch with Asensio, Lucas Vazquez & Cristiano Ronaldo appearing & the Spaniards had their own opportunities as well, but De Gea did his part to stop another goal for the Spanish side.
Deserved win by Real Madrid which overall played better. Next big match for them is the Spanish SuperCup (home & away) against FC Barcelona, which will be another test of form for them.
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