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Real Madrid beat Granada 1-0 as Marco Asensio scored the only goal of the game. The Spaniard scored a stunning goal to bag all three points for the Galacticos.
Granada started the game on a positive note. The visitors drew a massive save from Thibaut Courtois quite early on in the game. Antonio Puertas struck one down the line which was well defended by the Belgian.
Real Madrid responded soon after. Isco and Asensio linked up well before Dani Carvajal's cross almost resulted in a goal as Carlos Neva's attempt to block it hit the woodwork.
Moving on, Asensio had his attempt from outside the box diverted by Luis Maximiano. Meanwhile, Isco too had his volley saved.
Real Madrid started applying more pressure in the second half post the introduction of Luka Jovic and Eden Hazard. They took the game to Granada as Hazard and Jovic clicked instantly to create a chance for their side.
Real Madrid were awarded for their persistence as Asensio smacked one in from outside the box for his eighth goal of the season. His ruthless strike in the 74th minute of the game sealed the win for Madrid.
On that note, here's a look at five talking points from the game:
#5 Real Madrid extend their lead at the top of the table
With this win, Real Madrid have opened up a six-point gap over second-placed Sevilla. The Andalusian club dropped two points over the weekend yet again. Julen Lopetegui's men were held 0-0 by Osasuna.
Real Madrid snapped up the opportunity to extend their lead over their title rivals. Los Blancos are at the top of the table with 53 points after playing 23 games. Sevilla are second with 47 points. Although Barcelona have dethroned Atletico Madrid to enter the top four, they are not an immediate threat to either side at the top right now.
#4 Karim Benzema's absence was felt
Although Los Blancos had many notable absentees, the most notable mention has to go to Karim Benzema. The Frenchman is out with a hamstring injury and his date for return is still not set.
Benzema last featured for his side against Elche on January 23rd. In his absence, Carlo Ancelotti has been experimenting with the frontline but is still struggling to find the right balance.
Isco started as a false nine last night. The Spaniard had a decent game but his linkup with the wingers left a lot to be desired. Moreover, he was unable to meet the crosses that came in from the wings. Ancelotti will be hoping to have Benzema in action as soon as possible.
#3 Substitutes shine for Real Madrid
Federico Valverde, Eden Hazard and Luka Jovic changed the game for the better. The Uruguayan was massive following his entrance. He re-energized the hosts with his flare. His work ethic disrupted Granada in the center of the park. Valverde's introduction breathed new life into the game.
Hazard and Jovic too had an impactful impact on the pitch. The duo created a chance within seconds after coming on. The Belgian was lively throughout. He almost set Asensio up for his second of the night and even came close to winning a penalty.
#2 Isco's inclusion over Luka Jovic and Eden Hazard
With Karim Benzema sidelined with an injury, Real Madrid are without their indispensable number nine. It is bewildering to acknowledge the fact that Carlo Ancelotti preferred to have Isco play as a number nine when he had the option of starting Luka Jovic. The Serbian is a recognized number nine. Another option could have been Eden Hazard, who can slot in anywhere in the front three and has prior experience of playing as a false nine.
Isco did not have a bad game but the duo had far more impact following their introduction. Hazard is far better at opening stiff back lines and is faster at circulating the ball in the final third. Ancelotti will have to find the right balance as his squad selections have raised a lot of eyebrows.
#1 Marco Asensio with a spectacular performance
Marco Asensio had a night to remember. The Spaniard was exceptional against Granada. Asensio scored a peach of a goal to secure all three points for his side. The 26-year-old thundered one in from outside the box. Such was the strike that all Maximiano could do was stand and watch it sail.
Asensio had eight shots on goal with six on target. His persistence was rewarded with a goal. Apart from that, he won three duels, created two chances, made three recoveries, successfully completed one dribble and won one tackle throughout the game. All in all, it was a great performance from Madrid's academy boy.
