Isco, Vasquez, Bale or Asensio: The Battle Continues

Asensio's Performances

Marco Asensio, the 22-year-old from Spain, made headlines with his amazing goals and neat dribbling. Immediately compared to the likes of Lionel Messi, this left-footed youngster has really come of age on the football pitch with his screamers, and his ability to maintain possession, even in a quick counter-attack.

Asensio's steady rise to fame was boosted by his 2 breathtaking goals against Barcelona in both the legs in the beginning of the season, taking Real Madrid towards their 10th Spanish Super Cup victory.

With Ronaldo's ban and injuries attacking the historic Whites, more players were given chances to gain Zidane's trust. Asensio was not Zidane's first choice in the beginning as he was often substituted for Isco, who had then confirmed his starting spot, for the closing stages of the game. Asensio's style of play, where he rotates the ball between different players, is seen to be similar to that of Isco's who had been given a free role by the French manager.

Then Madrid's occasional losses pushed Zidane towards experimenting with his team. Playing Asensio more, results turned out to be more positive than they were all season. This goes to be said sometimes, with his goals.

Asensio then proved his worth with his performance against the French league toppers, Paris Saint-Germain, as he came on as a substitute and helped in creating 2 quick goals for the European champions.

Asensio's ability to play in any position he's given, along with his popping up at difficult places to smoothen things out, add to his chances of getting selected for the quarterfinal.