Real Madrid returned to winning ways in LaLiga with a 3-1 victory over Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu. Vinícius Júnior was the standout performer, scoring twice — one from open play and another from the penalty spot — before Kylian Mbappé sealed the win late on. Georges Mikautadze briefly gave Villarreal hope with a fine strike, but Real Madrid remained composed for the win.
Madrid’s control of possession translated directly into numerical dominance across key passing and carrying metrics. Aurélien
Tchouaméni’s 97.1% pass completion led all players, while Dean Huijsen (94.7%), Jude Bellingham (93.8%), and Dani Ceballos (91.9%) ensured consistent ball retention through the spine. Álvaro Carreras topped the match with 14 progressive passes and 106 total touches, while Vinícius registered 78 touches in the final third — more than double any Villarreal player. Mbappé and Vinícius each produced three or more key passes, and six Madrid players completed at least 90% of their passes, underscoring the technical precision that defined Xabi Alonso’s side.
Villarreal had their moments through Nicolás Pépé and Thomas Partey, each contributing to their side’s progressive play and defensive recoveries, but their influence waned under Madrid’s territorial control. The visitors’ top performer, Pépé, finished with a 95% pass completion and four take-ons, but Villarreal’s inability to convert progression into final-third presence — none of their players exceeded 15 touches in advanced zones — left them chasing the game.
Vinícius Júnior delivered an all-encompassing display from the left flank. Beyond his brace, he led all players with six key passes, 110 touches, and 78 touches in the final third. His six successful take-ons matched his six ball recoveries, reflecting both creativity and defensive contribution. With 0.56 xT gained from his actions, Vinícius was decisive in both creating and finishing phases, dictating the match’s tempo whenever he received the ball near the box.
Álvaro Carreras’ contribution was more subtle yet structurally vital. The full-back ranked first for progressive passes (14), third for touches in the final third (37), and added five ball recoveries. He maintained 91% pass completion and 0.70 xT gain, balancing forward initiative with defensive reliability. Carreras’ dual presence on both ends of the pitch typified Madrid’s tactical width and progressive symmetry down the left.
Franco Mastantuono capped another encouraging performance from midfield. He registered 10 progressive carries, 36 touches in the final third, and three take-ons, complementing Vinícius’ direct threat with intelligent off-ball movement. His 0.69 xT gain placed him among the game’s most influential creators, while his defensive positioning added four recoveries. For a teenager still learning Madrid’s system, Mastantuono’s numbers reflected both maturity and growing confidence within Alonso’s evolving setup.
