Zidane got it spot on
Tactical surprise
The big surprise on Tuesday was Cristiano’s omission from the squad list. Then on Wednesday, we were left just as perplexed when Benzema was left out of the starting XI. Some of us wonder whether it was a sign that Zidane might be giving less priority to the Cup. But as soon as the game started, we could understand his reasoning: Madrid’s three-pronged attack of James, Morata and Asensio rang rings around Sevilla’s defence, while the rest of the team played a high line. Sevilla are a side who like to start their games moving the ball about and Madrid swamped them. That wouldn’t have been possible with Cristiano and Benzema. Sevilla, who had come with the intention of controlling possession, were not allowed to do so - and what’s more, they were forced into giving away the opening goal after being caught trying to take the ball out of defence; Casemiro recovered the ball back and James complied with a perfect finish.
Superb team effort
The game turned out to be a recital on the part of Madrid - a masterclass from Zidane. James switched to a more central role, which opened up spaces for Carvajal to run into. Over on the other flank, Marcelo tormented the lethargic Ganso then linked up with Asensio to have Mariano running in circles. Whenever Sevilla did manage to get forward and tried to block Madrid’s escape routes, Sampaoli’s plan came undone by Madrid’s good positioning and precise passing. And on top of all of that, Sevilla were out of luck with referee Mateu Lahoz in every decision; the Andalucians were a shadow of themselves. They lacked spirit, team play, and even their star players - Vitolo, N’Zonzi, Nasri et al, failed to show.
Happy anniversary
Real Madrid meanwhile were the exact opposite. Each and every one played to their best level, or close to it. They were stronger, faster, better positioned, more sure of themselves and every man knew their place within the system. James shone like the world superstar he is, Marcelo was sensational, Casemiro cleaned up at the back and the defenders were quick-acting. Only Morata had an off-day of sorts, although he did mange to keep Mariano in check with great enthusiasm. Zidane rounds off his first year in charge at Madrid winning 41 games out of 54. He’s only lost two. Now his team have gone 38 games without defeat. Last night he played it to perfection and celebrated a happy anniversary of his first 12 months on the bench.