Real Madrid 1-0 Athletic Bilbao: Hits and Flops as Los Blancos go 7 points clear at the top | La Liga 2021-22

#3 Hit: Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid)

Vinicius in action against Athletic Bilbao

Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr is evolving into a better player with each passing game. The Madrid starlet is steadily improving on every facet of his game.

His performance against Athletic Bilbao showed that he is getting better with his passing and decision making. A perfect one-two sequence with Luka Modric that eventually led to Benzema's goal particularly caught the eye.

Vinicius won ten duels, created five chances and won two tackles throughout the game. Moreover, his bag of tricks bamboozled Inigo Lekue and Oscar de Marcos all game.

---

#2 Flop: Inigo Lekue (Athletic Bilbao)

Inigo Lekue

Inigo Lekue did not enjoy the best of nights against Real Madrid. The Athletic Bilbao defender was tasked with the job of stopping Vinicius Jr. Needless to say, the Brazilian was too hot to handle for the 28-year-old.

Lekue lost five duels and conceded three fouls in the first half. He even received a yellow card for a cynical challenge on Vinicius Jr. The Spaniard's struggles against the winger did not go unnoticed, with Marcelino replacing him after the first 45 minutes.

---

#1 Hit: Karim Benzema (Real Madrid)

Karim Benzema celebrates after scoring.

After finishing fourth in the Ballon d'Or standings, Karim Benzema looks hungry for more. The Frenchman scored the winner on the night after some beautiful work by Vinicius Jr, Luka Modric and Marco Asensio. He now has 12 goals in La Liga this season.

Benzema combined well with Vinicius on the left, forcing some great saves off Unai Simon. The 33-year-old was the focal point of most Real Madrid attacks.

He combined well with the midfielders and eased the transitions, while moving higher up the pitch.