Madrid (AFP)
Real Madrid won 2-0 against Getafe, in a late La Liga matchday one, thanks to two goals from France's Karim Benzema and Ferland Mendy, and provisionally take second place in the league.
With 46 points, the Madrilenians pass FC Barcelona (43 points), before the 23rd day, and come back to 5 points of Atletico Madrid, leader with two games late to play.
Aligned in 3-4-3 unprecedented due to numerous absences, Zinédine Zidane's players had to wait until the second half to gain the advantage over Getafe, 13th in the championship.
Uninspired in an Alfredo Di Stefano stadium still behind closed doors, and deprived of several offensive players (Eden Hazard, Rodrygo, Valverde ...) and their captain Sergio Ramos, operated for the meniscus at the beginning of the week, the Merengue have long stumbled on a well-established Getafe defense.
It was the French striker Karim Benzema who once again unblocked the situation, winning the duel against Cabaco to regain a lead, a cross from the Brazilian Vinicus Junior in the 60th minute.
His 11th goal in the league.
Seven minutes later, French international Ferland Mendy, who had a hybrid role in defense, doubled the lead by tackling a good cross from Marcelo at the near post following a superb attacking effort.
Earlier in the game, Spanish goalkeeper David Soria repelled the attempts of Luka Modric (37th) and Benzema (13.47th), before giving in on the hour mark.
Before challenging Atalanta Bergamo on February 24, Real will host Valencia this Sunday, in an attempt to retain their second place.
© 2021 AFP