[ad_1]
Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach was nothing short of a masterclass, and the Zizou flag has been raised once again.
There were a couple of scenarios that would lead Real Madrid to the round of 16 in this season’s UEFA Champions League, but it was a victory that would provide the most comfort. Ask and you shall receive, that is exactly what Zinedine Zidane did under the bright lights of Alfredo Di Stefano.
Whites have been poor in the Champions League this season, losing both meetings to Shaktar Donetsk is just the tip of the iceberg. In the league, he has given away penalties as an Oprah Winfrey show and dropped points to teams like Cádiz.
Heading into yesterday’s game against the German team, Madrid were on the brink of their first Champions League outing before the round of 16. Yes, you read it right and you read it again. Fortunately for Los Vikingos, their record remains intact and is one that no other team in the history of the competition can boast.
Before the final match of the group stage, France-based L’equipe reported that if Zidane did not advance to R16, he would be shown the door. Even before that, the tide seemed to be turning from fans, with social media calling for Argentine coach Mauricio Pochettino to take the reins.
When asked directly from the press whether the game against Mönchengladbach would serve as a test or not, he simply replied: “I don’t get involved in the tests, what matters to me is the game and doing things well as a team.”
Say what you want about Zidane, whether it be for his tactics or his squad selection, but yesterday’s performance is proof that when it matters most he can bring out the best in this team and find a way to win. Think of the UCL just a few seasons ago, facing Paris Saint-Germain, when no one thought Madrid could do it, Zizou pulled a family of rabbits out of the hat.
After leading the group with three additional points, the Frenchman has added 150 victories, earning him the second-most victories in club history.
It should be noted that this season has been plagued with injuries thus far. Every few days the dreaded “Medical Report of insert the player of your choice here”It is published on the official website of the club. The situation with COVID-19 does not make it easier.
Yes, this team is great and talented, but much of it is still very raw and when it disperses, as in the case of Sergio Ramos’ absence, this team can and will have problems. Zidane has done an incredible job for this club as a manager and will continue to contribute 100% regardless of factors that may be beyond his control.
Simply put, put some RESPECT on their behalf.
[ad_2]
