Valencia 1-4 Real Madrid: 5 Talking Points

Valencia v Real Madrid - La Liga
Valencia v Real Madrid - La Liga

#2 90 minutes of nerves, nerves and nerves

Kondogbia
Kondogbia vies with Kroos for the ball

Despite coming into the game after the convincing 7-1 win over Deportivo La Coruna in La Liga, Madrid's confidence was shot to smithereens after the Copa del Rey exit against lowly Leganes. It's showed in the opening exchanges - as Navas had to deal with nervous defenders ignoring his calls, with Marcelo and Casemiro committing plenty of errors

Ronaldo's penalties calmed Real Madrid down, and they looked like the Los Blancos side of old, albeit briefly. The start to the second half reversed tables yet again, as Valencia got a goal back and send Madrid retreating. Navas pulled off a stunning save to preserve the 2-1 lead, and the defending champions hunkered down, dealing with their nerves.

Zidane's response was to bring on Vazquez, Kovacic and Asensio - and Madrid's pressure valve was released, leading to the late flurry of goals. Both sides dealt with plenty of nervous moments, and the difference in reactions was telling.

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