‘Los Blancos’ took all three points in their Group G clash, however the visitors may feel slightly aggrieved to depart empty handed.

The hosts started the game with intent, as Sergio Ramos’ header glances off the post in the opening five minutes, however Plzen weathered the storm and managed to hold out until the 11th minute.

Madrid may have lacked the quality tonight, however form a neutral perspective it was an entertaining duel. Keylor Navas, who replaced Thibaut Courtois in the Real Madrid goal, did well to deny Milan Petržela at his near post with his feet, with this save immediately setting his team up on the counter attack.

A perfectly lofted cross from Lucas Vázquez was powered home by Karim Benzema past Hruska in the Plzen goal, the perfect start. The header meant that Karim Benzema has now scored in the Champions League in 14 consecutive seasons.

The Czech champions responded well and played without fear. David Limberský should have done better, as the best he could do was to dink an effort just to the right of Navas’ goal.

Plzen's goalkeeper, Hruska, later did his best to gift Madrid their second, teeing Isco up perfectly from a sloppy pass. However, the former Malga player could only send his effort wide of the goal. In hindsight, he should have squared the ball to Germany international, Toni Kroos, who had a clear sight of goal.

Similarly to the first half, Madrid started the second well. Marcelo doubled the host’s lead after brilliant build-up play with Gareth Bale and Federico Valverde, who was making his debut for the club. Bale assisted with a cheeky flick after Valverde had won the ball and started the move.

Despite the apparent dominance, Lopetegui’s side failed to take their chances. Ten minutes before the final whistle Patrik Hrošovský halved the deficit after an ambitious strike found its way past Neylor Navas from 25 yards out. Pavel Vrba’s side threw the kitchen sink at the Madrid defence during the final few minutes, however they could not salvage a memorable point in the Spanish capital.

Jeers were evident at the final whistle, with the jury well and truly out for the former Spain manager. Madrid struggled against a poor opponent, and if reports are true, Julen Lopetegui’s days in charge of Real Madrid may be numbered.

P. Hrošovský

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