Real Madrid 2-0 Osasuna: Six observations and tactical review | LaLiga 2019-20

#2 Impressive defensive performances

Militão was a standout performer for Real Madrid

Éder Militão put out a mighty performance on his first start at the Santiago Bernabeu. Although he received a yellow card in the initial stages of the game, his 1 v 1 defending, recovery pace, reading of the game, composure, and intercepting play had a pivotal role to play.

Sergio Ramos was his usual self, sniffing out attacks and circulating the ball around with accuracy. The defence nearly impenetrable apart from an occasion or two, and Ramos formed a lethal partnership at the back with Militão.

Full-backs Odriozola and Nacho had contrasting displays. While the former motored up and down the right flank, linking up well with Vázquez and causing trouble to Osasuna's defence, the latter, who made his first appearance this season, had a mediocre outing at best.

Odriozola's attacking impact on Real Madrid's game was there to see once again, as he made over-lapping and under-lapping runs in the final third.

At one such instance, he hounded the defenders with his athleticism and made his way into the Osasuna box and laid a cross that almost resulted in an own goal, or a goal for Luka Jović had he not fired the shot over the bar.

Odriozola's ability to recover ground if his man has an extra yard or two is extraordinary. Although he is a work in progress, he can be a reliable fixture in Dani Carvajal's absence.

Nacho, one of Zidane's most trusted defenders during 2016-17, has had a poor run of form. He clearly struggled, having negligible attacking impact. From a defensive point of view though, his performance was decent and he will only improve with more minutes under his belt.