:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50787663/587761938.0.jpg)
Sergio Ramos led by example from the back line against Osasuna and proved the best defense is a strong attack. While the scoreline eludes to a rout in Real Madrid's favor, Los Blancos were lucky that the newly promoted side didn't add a goal or two more. After Cristiano Ronaldo opened the scoring, Real took their foot off the gas pedal a bit allowing Osasuna to enjoy some possession, but ultimately showed why they should be considered favorites for the league title.
Osasuma committed many men forward at times, but Ramos' defense always stepped up to the occasion. The captain was dominant in the air on both ends of the ball. Within three minutes, Ramos rose to clear away a corner that led to a few offensive opportunities that he and he and Toni Kroos almost capitalized on.
The defender soon put one in the back of the net with fierce header off Kroos' corner.
And just before the break, @SergioRamos makes it 3-0. This is a blowout before the half. https://t.co/qRC9yEgZRT
— beIN SPORTS USA (@beINSPORTSUSA) September 10, 2016
Already up 2-0, Ramos dashed to the near post to rise above the entire Osasuna team to add his name to the scoresheet. It was a trademark Ramos header. Once he locked onto the trajectory off the cross, there was no stopping the defender. He's simply too dominant in the air inside the box.
Even Real Madrid legend Raul chimed in:
"[The goal] was a superb moment by Ramos attacking the ball ferociously with his head."
"He's a defender-forward hybrid that scores many goals."
His aerial presence has been his bread and butter for years. Sure, there's time when the Spaniard's decision making is in question, but more often then not he arrives at big moments. His goal against Osasuna put the opposing side to bed on the verge of halftime and all but wrapped up the three points. Now perfect through three games, Real Madrid sits comfortably at the top of the table, three points clear of arch rivals Barcelona. It's still early, but the aggressive attitude shown by Zinedine Zidane's team thus far, led by Ramos gives off the impression that they're ready to retake the La Liga crown.