Galatasaray 0-1 Real Madrid: Five players who impressed | UEFA Champions League 2019/20

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Kroos celebrates Madrid's only goal.
Kroos celebrates Madrid's only goal.

#2 Karim Benzema caused trouble for Galatasaray

Benzema
Benzema

The only thing missing from Karim Benzema's performance today was adding his name to the score-sheet - or at least to the assist-sheet.

The 31-year-old Frenchman did nearly everything right today. He was a powerhouse in the final third, and he was willing to lay up assists for his teammates. Benzema, in his centre-forward position, made five key passes, much more than anyone else on the pitch.

He invaded the final third creating chances for others and also fashioning out opportunities for himself. From his five shots at goal, three were on target, but Fernando Muslera was not intent on letting another goal past him.

While this season has been trying for Luka Jovic, Benzema seems to have found form under Zidane, and Madridistas will hope that this continues.


#1 Fernando Muslera gave a strong performance

Muslera and Courtois
Muslera and Courtois

If Toni Kroos hadn't scored that deflected goal, Muslera would have picked up a clean sheet to accompany his strong performance against one of the biggest clubs in the world.

Muslera actively put an end to many Madrid attacks, making eleven strong saves throughout the game. While a number of shots from Los Blancos were from distance and somewhat easier for Muslera to handle, a good number were not so easy.

The experienced 33-year-old goalkeeper was literally Galatasaray's last line of defence. While his teammates were sometimes able to deal with Benzema's towering stance and Hazard's agility, he had to step in at many instances to keep the scoreline tight and their hopes up.

Kroos got the all-important goal beating Muslera.
Kroos got the all-important goal beating Muslera.

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