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Three points is three points, even if Real Madrid waits until the final seconds to secure the victory. A short flight to battle red-hot Las Palmas didn't necessarily go as planned for Los Blancos but thanks to Casemiro, Madridistas weren't deprived of celebratory traditions back home in the Spanish capital.
Gareth Bale is the future
No, the Welshman didn't claim a goal in Real Madrid's trip to Las Palmas, but he did provide Zinedine Zidane and Madridistas with the assurance that he's not far from regaining his pre-injury form. Until Cristiano Ronaldo leaves the Spanish capital, Gareth Bale will forever live in his shadow but the Welshman has shown he can handle the workload.
Against Las Palmas, he struck a shot from distance that strayed just wide of the net. A foot to the left and Bale would've been carried off the pitch for tallying his 15th La Liga goal and the dagger against the in-form Los Amarillos.
Real Madrid's heart prevailed
Los Blancos simply didn't have the quality Sunday to wipe aside a scorching Las Palmas side. Sergio Ramos netted an early go-ahead goal in the 24th minute but his teammates failed to secure any insurance.
Casemiro should start more games his hustle and heart on the field is what we need
— RoddyRozay (@RzarodR6) March 5, 2016
After conceding with three minutes remaining in regulation, it appeared Real Madrid would return home with just one point. However, one man overshadowed by a few high profile footballers ahead of him made the most of his last minute chance. Zidance gambled on Casemiro's inclusion in the lineup however the Brazilian re-payed the favor scoring not only the winner but also his first goal for the club.
Keylor Navas deserves a raise
At this point, we're simply beating a dead horse. But, where would Real Madrid be without Keylor Navas's heroics?
The man unequivocally stops shots and arguably is Real Madrid's most valuable player this season. He's been known for his acrobatics and inventiveness between the sticks but today he exhibited top-class awareness and aggression. The Costa Rican denied Las Palmas on numerous occasions, recording a handful of saves but one shines brighter than the rest.
Who needs @D_DeGea when you got @NavasKeylor?!? Keep him at @ManUtd! #LPAvRMA https://t.co/ljQXpFTCHo
— beIN SPORTS USA (@beINSPORTSUSA) March 13, 2016
In the 64th minute, Las Palmas lifted a through ball over Real Madrid's back line. While Nili couldn't bring the pass under control with ease, Navas's aggression off the line saved what could've been an equalizer. He read the situation well and swung a fist at the bouncing ball to clear the danger and allow his shaky defense to regroup.