Europe's Top 5 Leagues: The best performers from last week

#1 Thibaut Courtois

Thibaut Courtois: Defiance

After having a terrible night at Seville, Thibaut Courtois had to compose himself for a much bigger test. The Madrid Derby as it is called was going to be in front of Courtois’ home crowd and Real Madrid fans don’t stay behind players who don’t step up their game. With Keylor Navas also knocking on the doors, being good enough to start, Courtois had to prove his value against Atletico. And needless to say, the Belgian came up with the goods.

Courtois has never been called into action so much in a single game as he was last night. With Atletico pressing high and putting immense pressure on Real Madrid’s possession game, Courtois was called into action more often than not. He had to use his feet a lot, something that he isn’t used to doing.

But Courtois was as composed as they come, not faltering on any sneaky moves by Atletico attackers. His ball distribution was tremendous, picking out right players who are not under pressure. He didn’t take much of a chance and got rid of the ball within three seconds of receiving it. The weight on the passes from Courtois was just right.

Apart from with his feet, Courtois had to work with his hands a lot. He jumped around here and there gobbling up, every set piece attempt from Atleti. His brilliant saves, saved Real Madrid’s night. He was caught out on a 1v1 situation twice or thrice and against good finishers. The first shot came from range and Courtois was able to parry it away.

The next attempt though was a clear goalscoring opportunity for Antoine Griezmann who was clearly through on goal, in behind the defense. Courtois left his lines and approached forward and the shot blasted by Griezmann, took a big piece of Courtois’ head and came out. The next 1v1 came up for Diego Costa. Costa was expected to poach the goal but Courtois saved the attempt from short range.

All in all, a perfectly improvised game from Thibaut Courtois. Lopetegui will have to ponder over whom to choose for El Clasico but nevertheless, he has two top class goalkeepers at his disposal.