Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 14, 2024 3:37 am GMT
Real Madrid’s recent victory over Espanyol not only marked an important win for the team but also celebrated Rodrygo’s significant milestone: his 150th victory as a Real Madrid player. The match showcased moments of brilliance, particularly from Brazilian star Vinicius Jr., and emphasized the determination of the squad to maintain their unbeaten streak in La Liga. This win might be one small step in their journey, but it also reflects the growing synergy between the players as they chase their ambitious goals this season.
Second Half Surge Seals Victory
Real Madrid faced a tough battle against Espanyol, but a spirited second-half performance made all the difference. After falling behind due to an early slip by goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, the team rallied to secure a 2-1 win. Rodrygo, who celebrated his milestone with a goal, reflected on the match, saying, “Winning is always hugely important in this shirt, it’s always our goal. This was a tough match.”
The team had struggled to find the back of the net in the first half, but coach Carlo Ancelotti’s halftime talk seemed to ignite a fire within the players. Rodrygo noted, “We reacted quickly to the opposition goal…everything came off in the second half and we won the game.”
Dynamic Duo: Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr.
Rodrygo was full of praise for Vinicius Jr., who provided an exquisite assist for his goal. The assist was described as “delightful” and reminiscent of Luka Modric’s play, highlighting Vinicius’s improving skills on the pitch. “I’d like to thank him for the assist,” said Rodrygo, illustrating the team’s mutual respect and acknowledgment of each other’s contributions.
Vinicius Jr.’s impact didn’t end with just one assist. Coming off the bench, he injected energy into the game and helped reshape the narrative. His ability to turn the tide for the team shows his immense value as they progress through the season.
Rodrygo’s Journey with the Club
Since joining Real Madrid, Rodrygo’s journey has been nothing short of impressive. This victory marked his 150th win in just six seasons, with notable statistics to his name:
- 101 wins in La Liga
- 33 wins in the UEFA Champions League
- 8 wins in the Copa del Rey
- 4 wins in the Spanish Super Cup
- 2 wins in both the Club World Cup and European Super Cup
In addition to his wins, Rodrygo has scored 56 goals, with the most notable victories coming against fierce rivals Barcelona and Athletic, each yielding 8 wins.
Aiming for an Unbeaten Season
The team’s ambition goes beyond individual milestones. They are aiming for an unbeaten season, a feat they’ve expressed determination to achieve. “It’s harder than it looks. 38 games is an awful lot, and anything can happen,” Rodrygo commented about their ambitions. His statement underlines both the challenge of maintaining such a rigorous pursuit and the commitment from each player to give their best.
Despite the challenges, the mood within the team reflects confidence. Rodrygo stated, “The season is only just starting and we’re getting better every day.” This growth mindset is crucial for a team aiming for glory.
Next Steps at the Bernabéu
With the victory fresh in their minds, Real Madrid now sets its sights on upcoming matches, including another La Liga clash at the Santiago Bernabéu. The atmosphere at their home ground plays a key role in their performances, and a strong showing there can further boost their momentum.
Rodrygo emphasized the importance of their home fans, stating, “Our aim is always to win…we went all out for the win.” The supportive energy from the fans can indeed propel the players forward as they work to extend their unbeaten streak.
Trophy Cabinet and Future Goals
Rodrygo’s accomplishments also include 12 trophies since joining the club, which includes prestigious titles such as:
- 2 UEFA Champions Leagues
- 1 FIFA Club World Cup
- 2 UEFA Super Cups
- 3 La Liga titles
- 1 Copa del Rey
- 3 Spanish Super Cups
These victories highlight the success of Rodrygo’s career at Real Madrid, where silverware is often within reach. As they continue to build on their solid unbeaten league performance, the players emphasize the collective goal of winning more titles this season.
Conclusion
Real Madrid’s victory against Espanyol was important for two reasons: they earned three more points, and we saw how much Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr. have grown as players. The way they work together could help the team achieve even greater success. As the season goes on, their dedication to winning and getting better will be crucial for what they hope to accomplish. No matter if they finish the season without losing, their adventure will be full of excitement and determination.
