Real Madrid advanced, but not without unnecessary drama. A rotated side showed quality in possession and attacking moments, yet nearly let the game slip due to poor game management and a worrying lack of intensity from some late substitutes.
**Andriy Lunin — 8**
Made two outstanding saves, including a crucial stop in the final moments to prevent extra time.
**David Jiménez —** 7
A solid debut. Delivered a couple of quality balls into the box and showed composure on the ball. Not at fault for the goal conceded, as he was left tracking two attackers on his own.
**Dean Huijsen — 7**.5
Strong ball progression from the back and confident stepping into midfield. Gave possession away cheaply on a few occasions, but overall a decent performance.
**Álvaro Carreras —** 6.5
Tidy in possession and comfortable building play. Struggled defensively late on as Talavera increased their intensity.
**Fran García —** 5.5
Allowed a run in behind for the first goal conceded and was dispossessed too easily at times. A mixed night defensively.
**Franco Mastantuono — 6**
Showed flashes of quality with his dribbling but lacked end product. Had a bizarre moment handling the ball in open play, escaped punishment, and was promptly substituted by Xabi Alonso.
**Dani Ceballos — 7.5**
Dictated tempo and controlled the game from deep for long stretches. Played 86 minutes, and his absence coincided with Madrid losing control.
**Arda Güler — 8**
Key to Madrid’s possession play, consistently vertical, and dangerous from set pieces throughout the night. One of the most reliable performers.
**Endrick — 8**
Arguably Madrid’s best player. Created two excellent chances for Mbappé with beautiful passes that deserved assists. Sharp, intelligent, and constantly involved.
**Gonzalo García — 7**
Strong link-up and hold-up play. Got on the end of two good crosses but failed to convert either chance.
**Kylian Mbappé — 8**
Missed two point-blank chances that should have killed the game, yet still impossible to rate him lower. Involved in all three goals and ultimately decisive.
**Rodrygo Goes — 6**
Showed quality immediately with a sharp turn on his first touch, but spent most of his time pinned deep on the right wing.
**Aurélien Tchouaméni — 4**
Disappointing cameo. Showed poor intensity despite fresh legs and failed to track back properly on the first goal conceded.
**Jude Bellingham — 4**
Looked disinterested and lacked urgency. Committed a needless foul that directly led to Talavera’s second goal.
**Jorge Cestero — N/A**
Not on long enough to be fairly assessed.
See More: