LaLiga 2018-19: Real Madrid CF 2-0 Valencia CF: 3 Reasons Why Real Madrid Won

#2 The Defence's resilience

The Reliable Ramos turned up tonight against Valencia, and

Regulion

looks more assured everytime he steps out on the pitch.

Real Madrid did not concede a goal on the night, despite the visitor's best efforts in the second half, and part of it is down to how good the home side's defence was on the night. Sergio Ramos finally had an error-free evening and looked like the dominant force that he so often is, while Raphael Varane slowly looks to be returning to his beast-like levels. Carvajal's return has been a Godsend, as Odriozola, while talented, just can't produce the same quality of displays the experienced #2 can week in week out.

Sergio Regulion stepped in for the injured Marcelo, and the Madrid team did not skip a beat. Much of that is due to the youngster's understanding of his role and brilliant skill set, both of which were on full display, as Valencia had very little joy down their right flank, with Carlos Soler constantly having to drift infield to receive the ball. The 21-year-old provides the side with the perfect balance between attack and defence, and his brilliant physicality means that he can recover immediately if he does ever get caught out while attacking. The future looks very bright for this young lad.

Thibaut Courtois had a solid evening in goal for the home side, vindicating his coach's choice by making two brilliant saves, whilst punching or catching any incoming aerial danger, keeping a clean sheet in the process. His save off of Michy Batshuayi in the second half, and his dispossession of Santi Mina was a reminder of his World Class ability and were both saves Keylor Navas would most likely not have been able to make.