Juventus 0-3 Real Madrid: 5 Talking Points

#3 Isco over Bale, disco over pace

Indispensable again?

Ah, this boy. After tearing Argentina a new one with his elegance, Zidane had to deploy Isco to break down a Juve defence that has quite a reputation in Europe.

Zidane had the option to go with a 4-3-3 and deploy Bale on the right flank but he instead chose to go with the 4-4-2 diamond with Isco operating at his tip.

Ably supported by Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, Isco made a difference three minutes into the game as he drifted wide and had the beating of Di Sciglio before teeing up Ronaldo for the opener.

His lateral movement and understanding of how things work in the attacking third help carve open the most assured defences in the world.

Treat that as a fact now. Isco also brings out the best out of Ronaldo and Benzema.

This is about the time last year where Isco made the world stand up and take notice. He looks all set to do that once again.

This is bad news for Gareth Bale who's time at the Madrid capital may end unceremoniously owing to the brilliance of the Andalusian who could prove to be one of the most vital cogs of this Madrid juggernaut as they try to make it three Champions League titles in a row.

And let's not forget Keylor Navas for two absolutely brilliant stops, both from Higuain's efforts. Occasions like these when you aren't tested much are the ones where goalkeepers are susceptible to a lack of concentration.

But Navas, like all world-class goalkeepers worth their salt, was up to the task on the very few occasions he was called upon and made sure the netting remained undisturbed for the length of the game.