How Vinicius helped Real Madrid beat Valencia despite suspension

Real Madrid’s win over Valencia at Mestalla was shaped by more than just skill on the field. It was about careful planning, both for today and for what lies ahead. Every player was positioned where they belong, creating a logical, cohesive lineup. This went beyond debates over Dani Carvajal’s recent omission and the limited communication about that decision. Fede Valverde, David Jiménez, and the returning Trent Alexander-Arnold have all rotated through the right-back role, with the captain watching from the bench.

Two strategies against Valencia

Was there a special game plan for Valencia? Absolutely, and it boiled down to two clear strategies.

The first was straightforward: put every player in their proper position. Gone are the days of seeing Valverde, Tchouameni, and Camavinga pushed into defensive roles. The three formed a solid midfield, a setup that will likely continue as long as their legs hold up. The Rayo Vallecano match proved crucial for Arbeloa in shaping this approach.

The second strategy involved Vinicius, Valencia fans’ public enemy number one. Heading into the Rayo game, Vinicius carried four yellow cards, risking suspension. Everyone at Valdebebas agreed: if there was ever a match to rest him, it was against Valencia. The decision was clear.

Vinicius sits out, focus shifts

Vinicius received a yellow in the prior match and did not step onto the Mestalla pitch. While some Real Madrid players still faced jeers, Valencia fans’ attention was more on club owner Peter Lim and coach Rubén Corberán than on the visiting team in blue.

Looking ahead

Now, Vinicius has two weeks of focused training before a decisive stretch for Real Madrid, facing Real Sociedad, Benfica, Osasuna, and Benfica again. Without the threat of suspension looming, he returns with his team level on points with Barcelona, ready for the critical run-in.

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