Madrid held to a goalless draw against Real Sociedad at home in the matchday 19 laliga fixture. Los Blancos are 5 points behind Barcelona in the league standings after the draw. Alex Remiro denied the hosts from scoring any goal with a string of saves. Sociedad are currently at third spot with 39 points, having played one game more than the top two in the league.
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Madrid frustrated with goalless draw
Madrid came into the fixture after Barcelona’s derby win which increased the point gap to 6 points. Ancelotti had the task clear cut, to get 3 points. Benzema, Vinicius and Rodrygo formed the attacking trident. Kroos was supported by Ceballos and Valverde with Modric in bench. The game was dominated for the major parts by the hosts. Blancos took 20 shots with 7 on target while the visitors offered a little threat here and there. La Real were happy to pick one point from Bernabeu. Vinicius was close to score a goal in both the halves which was denied by Remiro. Kroos, Benzema and Rodrygo’s attempts were also denied by Sociedad keeper. Kubo and Navarro tested Madrid’s defence but Courtois made a lightwork out of it.
The result leaves Madrid at 42 points after playing 18 games, 5 behind their arch rivals Barca who have also played same number of games. Madrid have a midweek fixture against Valencia after missing out the league game due to Supercopa de Espana. Barcelona also plays their pending league fixture against Betis in midweek. “We are five points behind, we have to run. Barcelona are doing very well, but there is a lot left. January has been doubtful, but the team has grown and will start to improve,” Ancelotti said.
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Post match thoughts and insights from players
“It was a good game, very intense,” Madrid defender Nacho said after the match. “We had the better chances and we didn’t take them, the draw is a shame. Remiro and La Real are having a great season. We did a good job but [the draw] leaves us with a bad taste. When you have clear chances and you miss them. It’s a long season, we have to keep going.”
“I’m happy with the point, and with my game personally,” Remiro said afterwards. “Playing against these teams, they normally don’t let you off. We weren’t clinical in front of goal but we’re happy with the draw. Imanol [Alguacil] gets the best out of us. It isn’t coincidence. He knows how to get it right.”
