Real Sociedad 0-2 Real Madrid: 5 Talking Points as Luka Jovic takes Merengues 8 clear at the top | La Liga 2021-22

Real Madrid beat Real Sociedad 2-0 in La Liga to go eight points clear at the top of the standings.

After a scrappy first half, Vinicus Jr opened the scoring for Real Madrid in the 47th minute. The Brazilian combined well with Luka Jovic before burying the ball in the back of the net. Real Madrid quickly doubled their advantage through Jovic, who headed from close range, following up on Casemiro's attempt.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti will be very satisfied with Real Madrid's performance. Despite the rough schedule, they have been churning out positive results. The La Liga leaders have now secured all three points against Sevilla, Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad.

On that note, here's a look at five talking points from the game:

---

#5 Karim Benzema goes off injured

Karim Benzema of Real Madrid

Karim Benzema was substituted for Luka Jovic in the 17th minute of the game. The Frenchman felt some discomfort in his hamstring, and asked to be replaced.

Ancelotti, in his post-match presser, said Benzema felt some discomfort, so the team decided against aggravating his injury.

He also mentioned that the 33-year-old might miss the upcoming game against Inter Milan. But he hopes to have Benzema back against Atletico Madrid.

---

#4 Real Madrid extend their lead to eight points at the top

Real Madrid players rejoice after scoring a goal.

With the win, Real Madrid have extended their lead to eight points at the top of the table. After gameweek 16, Los Blancos lead the pack with 39 points, eight clear of Sevilla, who have a game in hand.

Real Madrid lead Real Betis and Atletico Madrid by nine and ten points, respectively, with the latter having a game in hand.

It will be interesting to see how the title race shapes up as Real Madrid and the league holders will go head to head against each other in the coming week.

#3 Luka Jovic shines for Real Madrid

Luka Jovic in action against Real Sociedad

Replacing Real Madrid stalwart Karim Benzema in such a key game was never going to be easy. But Luka Jovic ensured he got the job done.

The Serbian international had a night to cherish. Jovic was involved in both goals on the night. He set up Vinicius Junior perfectly after some tidy work in the box for the opening goal of the night. Jovic then scored Real Madrid's second, heading in from close range.

He deservedly won the Man of the Match award for his match-winning contribution. He provided a prime example of what he is capable of, something that should lift his confidence by leaps and bounds.

---

#2 Defensive masterclass by Real Madrid

Eder Militao celebrates with Vinicius.

What a performance at the back by Real Madrid, especially by Eder Militao. The Brazilian stood like a rock and thwarted everything that came his way.

Militao won nine duels, made ten clearances, won four tackles, intercepted the ball twice and made seven recoveries throughout the game. And not to forget his fiery long balls from the back, one of which almost set Vinicius up for his second of the night.

David Alaba, Dani Carvajal and Ferland Mendy too did their jobs pretty well. They were well-positioned and ensured they did not leave any gaping holes for La Real to exploit.

Real Madrid's backline ensured goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was well shielded throughout the game.

---

#1 Vinicius Junior is special

Vinicius Junior goes past Real Sociedad's backline.

Vinicius Junior is on his way to becoming one of the best players in the world if he continues his upward trajectory. The Brazilian international scored his tenth La Liga goal of the season against Real Sociedad.

The 21-year-old is virtually unplayable in 1v1 situations, and his dazzling feet are enough to overwhelm opposition defenders. He won nine duels, completed four dribbles, made three recoveries and was the most fouled player throughout the game.

His opener allowed Real Madrid to take complete charge of the game.