Real Madrid 3-0 Almeria: Five key points to take away

#2 James Rodriguez stars in a torpid Real Madrid attack

In a game of little ingenuity and creativity in the attacking third, summer recruit James Rodriguez came up trumps for the home team and did most of the work in creating chances. The 23-year old illuminated an insipid first-half with a majestic volley that thundered straight into the net to give his side some respite before the break.

His constant run-ins and tireless efforts in the next half may have failed to fruition into another goal, but was the talisman in Real’s attack. Rodriguez pushed forward with pace, sprayed incisive passes in dangerous areas and even whipped up spaces for the strikers.

Blancos were profligate in the attack and James was the only saving grace.