LaLiga 2018/19 Matchweek 16: Team of the Week

Midfielders

Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos prior to Saturday's match versus Rayo Vallecano

MF - Toni Kroos - Real Madrid CF

Real Madrid may not have scored a lot of goals against Rayo Vallecano on Saturday, but the midfield was superb due to Toni Kroos’ calming presence. The German international controlled the middle of the pitch, with six tackles and sharp passing (94 per cent accuracy).

In their last two league matches, Real have netted two goals. However, Kroos’ hard work has enabled both to be victories.

MF - Éver Banega - Sevilla FC

Éver Banega has been exceptional in a holding midfield role this season for Sevilla, and that was on display yet again Sunday versus Girona. The 30-year-old opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the second half.

Three successful dribbles also demonstrate his ability to get forward in the attack when necessary. Banega’s positioning and positive efforts in front of the back-line are a part of the reason why Sevilla have allowed only 16 goals through 16 league fixtures.

MF - Giovani Lo Celso - Real Betis

It is not easy to bounce back quickly from a mistake, but Real Betis’ Giovani Lo Celso was not about to let a missed penalty stop him on Sunday at Espanyol. After failing from the spot early in the match, the Argentine midfielder scored the equaliser just before half-time to make it 1-1 at the break. Strong character for sure.

Betis eventually won 3-1 due to two goals late in the match.