Real Valladolid vs. Real Madrid – Football Match Report – December 30, 2022

Real Madrid secured a 2-0 win at Real Valladolid when Karim Benzema scored two late goals, including a penalty, to put them a point ahead of Barcelona at the top of La Liga on Friday.

Ballon d’Or winner Benzema returned to the starting XI after missing out on France with a hamstring injury the day before the start and made a big impression.

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Real were awarded a penalty in the 83rd minute for handball by Javi Sanchez. The decision upset the home team and Leon was sent off for appeal. Benzema converted with ease.

The unmarked Benzema then doubled Real’s lead in the 89th with a well-placed shot from inside the box following an assist from substitute Eduardo Camavinga.

Before kick-off, there was a minute’s silence for the Brazilian Pele, who died on Thursday at the age of 82, while the country’s former striker Ronaldo paid his respects in the stands.

Both teams had several chances in the first half but the excellent goalkeepers of Valladolid’s Jordi Masip and Real’s Thibaut Courtois kept the game goalless at the break.

“The goal we conceded today was good for us,” said Courtois. “Of course you want to win 3-0 in other games, but I’d rather win 3-1 or 3-2 than 0-0.

“Today it looked like a draw for a long time, there were some good saves from both goalkeepers, we both played well. In the end, the handball, the penalty and Karim ended the game for us.”

– Kirkland: Madrid, Benzema show rust but return with a win

Masip denied Vinicius Junior a goal after 17 minutes with a reflex save from a tight angle, Benzema sent the rebound high over the bar from close range.

Courtois made a brilliant save after 36 minutes when Alvaro Aguado tried a shot from the edge of the box to the top left corner and the Belgian saved it with one hand.

Courtois had to save Real again in the 68th when he once again saved Sergio Leon’s header with one hand.

“It was a difficult game against an opponent who came into play gradually,” said Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti. “After the first half when we played well, Valladolid played well and it was a hard fought game.

“We didn’t defend well, the team wasn’t compact, but in this difficult situation we get away with three points, with a great game from Courtois, a great game from Benzema, so we’re ending an unforgettable year well. That’s what we have. ” Players in different conditions and little by little we have to get them all in good shape.”

Madrid are 38 points clear of second-placed Barca, who host Espanyol on Saturday.