World-class. Courtois had no chance on Pachuca’s lone goal, but was otherwise a brick wall. He came up with a vital double-save early on that prevented Madrid from going down, and made several more big saves in both halves.
### **Trent Alexander-Arnold: 7**
Continues to grow in this system. Delivered a key ball into the box that led to Garcia’s involvement in Madrid’s second goal. His progressive passing is going to be a real asset
### **Raul Asencio: 3**
The early red card could’ve derailed the whole evening. It was an unnecessary challenge that left his team shorthanded. Both Xabi Alonso and Courtois called for him to be better in situations like this. A learning experience, hopefully.
### **Dean Huijsen: 8.5**
Phenomenal display. Composed in possession, confident under pressure, and showed off his range with a perfect through-ball to Vinicius in the build-up to Madrid’s third goal. A complete performance from the young defender.
### **Fran Garcia: 7**
Energetic. He kept making those overlapping runs on the left, offering width and outlet options. His effort was rewarded with an assist.
### **Aurélien Tchouaméni: 7.5**
Adaptable and rock-solid. After Asencio’s red, Tchouaméni slotted into center-back and was as dependable there as he is in midfield. Read the game well and kept things steady in buildup.
### **Arda Güler: 8.5**
Electric. Played deeper than usual and took over a starting role seamlessly. Scored Madrid’s second goal with a smooth finish and helped link midfield to attack with slick 1-touch passing. Also put in work defensively. The complete package today.
### **Jude Bellingham: 8**
Very solid. Bellingham’s influence grew as the game wore on. Scored a composed, clinical goal and was a consistent outlet in transition. Awarded the official Man-of-the-Match.
### **Fede Valverde: 8**
The engine. Played higher up the pitch but adjusted when Madrid went down to 10. His pressing and tackling were key to turning the tide. His third goal — a solo run and finish — was a dagger.
### **Vinicius Jr.: 7.5**
A bit sharper. Made quicker decisions, better passes, and was more locked in overall. His movement and ball-carrying helped create Madrid’s third goal. Looked more confident than recent outings.
### **Gonzalo Garcia: 8.5**
Fantastic 45 minutes. Had his fingerprints on Madrid’s first two goals, including a beautiful lay-off assist to Güler. His link-up play and spatial awareness were top-tier. Very mature showing for his age.
Substitutes:
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### **Brahim Diaz: 7.5**
Instant impact. Didn’t overcomplicate things and assisted Valverde’s goal with a smart pass. Provided energy and control.
### **Dani Ceballos: 8**
Great cameo off the bench. Looked dynamic, pressed well, and brought the ball out under pressure with composure. Was constantly offering himself for the pass.
### **Luka Modric: 6.5**
Tidy and composed, but could’ve done better defensively on Pachuca’s goal. That said, he helped bring order in midfield during the closing phase.
### **Antonio Rüdiger: 6**
A bit rusty and overcommitted on a couple of challenges. Fair enough — these were his first minutes since returning. Needs time to regain rhythm.
### **Victor Muñor: N/A**
Came on too late to be rated.