(Football news) After a frustrating 0-0 draw against Real Sociedad on the weekend, Real Madrid won 2-0 against Valencia. The result was an important one as it keeps Real Madrid 5 points behind FC Barcelona. Carlo Ancelotti started with his standard 4-3-3 despite reports of him wanting to switch to a 4-2-3-1. Dani Ceballos kept his place in the midfield alongside Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. Fede Valverde and Rodrygo dropped to the bench while Marco Asensio started on the right wing. Dani Carvajal and Aurélien Tchouaméni returned to the bench after recovering from their injuries.

The 1st half was pretty ordinary as Los Blancos failed to create any significant chance. They did score a goal in injury time as Antonio Rudiger headed hom Toni Kroos’ corner. The goal was ruled out for a controversial foul in the box by Karim Benzema. Real Madrid came out in the 2nd half with much more intent. Marco Asensio scored an incredible long range goal to break the deadlock in the 52nd minute. Vinicius Jr went on another one of his solo runs 2 minutes later and doubled Real Madrid’s lead. In the 72nd minute Gabriel Paulista lost his head and got sent off for a ridiculous foul on Vinicius Jr.

Real Madrid got 3 important points and the performance was also good. There was some bad news as Eder Militao had to come off due to an apparent muscle injury which is likely to keep him out of action for some time. Karim Benzema also had some discomfort but Carlo said that he was subbed of only as a precaution. Ancelotti said after the game that he didn’t start Rodrygo because he wanted someone impactful to come off the bench if needed.

Starting Fede Valverde, Rodrygo and Eduardo Camavinga together has a big drawback because then Real Madrid don’t have a substitute who can change the pace of the game. Los Blancos’ next game is against Mallorca away from home before they go to Morocco for the FIFA Club World Cup.

Also read: Have Real Madrid made a mistake by not making a signing in January?