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#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.
