Real Madrid player ratings vs Espanyol- Defensive mids win the game

Defensive Midfielder- Casemiro- 7.5/10

Casemiro’s presence on the pitch was extremely important in an outing like this where Real Madrid play defensively, unlike their usual selves. The Brazilian made a few vital interventions in the latter stages of the game and delivered a potentially match-winning performance. He made sure that the Espanyol attacks were fizzled out promptly and to round off a good display, he also made a tackle on the referee in the final minutes which drew cheers from the Bernabeu.

Right Midfielder- Luka Modric- 8/10

The Croatian was expected to get a rest for this fixture but ended up playing entire of it. Modric made sure to run the team’s engine like he usually does and fulfilled the attacking responsibilities that he was vested with. The 33-year-old completed 94% of his passes and also got the final touch before Marco Asensio slotted the ball home. Modric will play a vital role against Sevilla and Atletico Madrid in the coming days despite featuring for 90 whole minutes.

Left Midfielder- Dani Ceballos- 7.5/10

Dani Ceballos’ induction into the starting eleven over the rested Toni Kroos paid off well. The 22-year-old was able to grind out and squeeze through sleek spaces. Kroos is synonymous with accurate passing and it was thought that his absence would see Madrid do it lack of it. However, the ex-Real Betis playmaker assured Lopetegui that his side can function without their German star man by completing 95% of his 60 attempted passes. Though he was not on set piece duties, Ceballos delivered as and when he was asked.