Real Madrid started off the match fast but it took until the 79th minute for Karim Benzema to finally find the back of the net. But with Luka Modric patrolling the midfield, even when Liverpool had their moments attacking, Los Blancos always seemed in control as all focus is on repeating as champions of the competition.
Can Real Madrid defend their title?
Rolling past Liverpool, Real Madrid showed that they’re still a team to be feared but comparing Real to other teams remaining in the competition, they have a gauntlet in order to repeat. This team have run hot and cold over the season which is why they’re trailing Barcelona by nine points in the league heading into El Clasico on Sunday. Generally, this would be unacceptable to Real Madrid but with players that the team have ost like Casemiro, a step back was expected.
It’s important to note that while Real Madrid won the tie over Liverpool by four goals, this is also a Reds side that have struggled in the league losing eight matches when they were supposed to be title contenders. A turnover is needed in defense and the midfield for Jurgen Klopp’s side but with the stars that they have, Real Madrid can win but they need to be perfect to do it.
It could be the last ride for Benzema, Modric, and Toni Kroos which is an intangible that should be taken into account but with the teams that are left, intangibles won’t be enough.
Napoli are looking to break into the conversation with the contenders and if Osimhen can continue his current pace, it’s certainly possible. With 23 goals in all competitions despite only featuring in 28 matches, the Nigerian is quickly establishing himself as one of the top strikers in the world and one of the few within touching distance of Erling Haaland still within Champions League play. With a strong support system around him, if the draw is kind, Napoli can make some more noise but the team still needs to prove themselves against top opposition.
