Elche 1-2 Real Madrid: 5 talking points as Vinicius Junior double sees off spirited Greens | La Liga 2021-22

#3 Carlo Ancelotti's men fail to go for the kill

Real Madrid could've introduced more attacking players and put the game to bed.

With Real Madrid leading only 1-0 in the second half and Elche looking dangerous on the break, it was clear the match wasn't in bag just yet. What was not clear, though, was whether Carlo Ancelotti would push for an insurance goal or ask his side to hold on to their lead.

By subbing on Daniel Carvajal and Ferland Mendy, the Italian went for the latter, and the irony is, despite that, Los Blancos soon managed a second goal. But the ploy came under fire late on when Elche pulled a goal back to set up a grandstand finale at the Martinez Valero.

Had Ancelotti subbed on more attack-minded players, there could've been a goal or two more, sealing the match long before Milla's goal.

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#2 Rodrygo compounds Real Madrid's injury woes

Rodrygo lasted only 18 minutes in the game before trudging off with a muscle injury.

Real Madrid were dealt with more injury woes after Rodrygo went off with a knock in the 18th minute, forcing them into an early change. But even then, when you consider the larger picture, it was their 21st injury of the season, and we're not even halfway through the campaign yet.

Rodrygo's injury had no impact on the game, as Los Blancos eventually ran out victors. But it certainly created a new cause of concern for Ancelotti, who's had enough already.

At this stage last season, Madrid had 16 different player injuries, so with five more this year, their injury crisis has only become worse.

Madrid are currently cruising at the top of the La Liga table. But the impact of such injuries could be felt later on in their campaign unless their fitness record improves.

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#1 David Alaba is the new Sergio Ramos for Real Madrid

Alaba was a warrior in Real Madrid's defence.

Sergio Ramos' departure from Real Madrid had left a leadership void at the back. While he cannot be replaced per se, new signing David Alaba is doing a great job in filling that void. The Austrian has taken little time to adjust to life in the Spanish capital, and produced another classy performance in defence against Elche.

Positionally aware and vigilant, the former Bayern Munich stalwart threw himself into the path of crosses. He made a staggering eight clearances as well as two blocks on the night.

Alaba was unfazed by Elche's fast-paced counter-attacking game. He frustrated the likes of Lucas Boye, Javier Pastore and Lucas Perez with his close man-marking and closing down of passing lanes. At this rate, he could be the new Sergio Ramos for Real Madrid.