Player Ratings: Real Madrid 0-0 Real Betis; 2020/21 La Liga

In attempts to challenge for the La Liga title, Real Madrid had to hold on to all three points against Real Betis but instead, they walk away with just one after a tug of war with their opponents. The goalless draw puts defending their title seemingly out of reach.

See player ratings below.

Thibaut Courtois — 8: Wasn’t severely tested but made a good stop in the first half to keep the game goalless. Then had a great save against Borja Iglesias on a 1-v-1 attempt in the second half and another stop with his foot later on. Solid performance to keep opponents tame.

Dani Carvajal — 7: Earns the start today and had a decent performance. Was good to have him back putting crosses into the box but couldn’t connect with anyone. Evident he is still easing back to full fitness. Finished with one aerial duel won and one key pass. Subbed after 68 minutes.

Raphael Varane — 7.5: Looks eager to return back to action and again partnered well alongside Militão. Great to see him getting back to his best in terms of confidence. Was sometimes caught out of position.. Finished with 95% pass completion and four aerial duels won.

Eder Militão — 7.5: Continues to be putting his best foot forward and popped up all over the pitch to deny any Real Betis player from finding the net. Good anticipation and decision-making but sometimes out of position which left acres of space open. Like with Varane, very lucky Lainez or Iglesias couldn’t convert their chances. Finished with one shot, 97% pass completion rate, one aerial won, and one tackle.

Nacho — 7: Slotted in at left-back and helped Madrid sometimes shift into a back three. Wasn’t afraid to push up and try to help his teammates in attack but couldn’t make the most of anything. Finished with one aerial duel won and two tackles.

Casemiro — 7.75: All over the pitch tonight and was one of the targets going forward for Madrid but just unlucky. Workhorse performance, though. Finished with two shots, two aerials won, two key passes, and three tackles.

Isco — 7.75: Acted as the creative outlet in the midfield as much as he could and put in a good shift. Overall a decent performance. Finished with a 97% pass completion rate, two shots one dribble, one key pass, and one aerial won. Subbed after 68 minutes.

Luka Modric — 7: Returns to the starting lineup and dictated the flow of the game. Evident he needs more rest though, as he wasn’t at his best. Had to drop into defensive positions and help Madrid play out the back at times. Finished with one shot and two key passes. Subbed after 77 minutes.

Rodrygo — 6.5: Earned the start over Vini Jr. and unfortunately couldn’t make the most of his chances. Did well in terms of helping with the build-up play. Had a shot hit just under the crossbar. Finished with two shots, one dribble, one tackle but a low 75% pass completion rate. Subbed off after 60 minutes.

Karim Benzema — 7.25: Given that he didn’t have any support from his fellow attackers, Benzema had a very quiet night. Couldn’t find a way to get the job done himself, either. Finished with two shots, two dribbles, two key passes and one aerial duel won.

Marco Asensio — 6.75: Handed another opportunity to step up for the team but couldn’t get the most of any chances. Really, really need more from him. Too many lateral passes prevented Madrid from moving forward. Great stats from the match but they’re the opposite of his actual performance. Finished with 92% pass completion, three shots, two key passes, and one dribble. Subbed after 77 minutes.

Substitutes:

Vini Jr. — 6.5: Dropped to the bench but gave Madrid some fresh legs after coming on for Rodrygo. Had the best chance of the night but couldn’t get enough off his shot. Pace threatened Betis’ backline but they were usually prepared. Finished with two shots and one tackle.

Alvaro Odriozola — 6.5: Came on to give Carvajal a rest. Did well and helped Madrid move out wide. Did better with his crossing as well but didn’t find any targets in the box. Showing more confidence, though. Finished with one shot and two key passes.

Marcelo — 6: Came on for Isco and had 20 minutes to make an impact but couldn’t help push Madrid forward. Tried to be a creative outlet and worked with Vini and Hazard but was often frustrated. Questionable decision-making sometimes. Finished with one shot and two dribbles.

Eden Hazard — 6.5: Makes his return to action which is a boost for the squad as they approach another Champions League clash. Played well with the ball and looked comfortable with it at his feet. Couldn’t do everything himself, though. Finished with two key passes.

Antonio Blanco — 6: Came on for Luka Modric and slotted in nicely alongside Casemiro. Positioned himself well to stop Real Betis from threatening with a counter-attack and helped the team keep possession in the dying minutes.