#4 Valencia’s defensive issues are befuddling
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For 85 minutes of the game, Valencia were surprisingly decent at the back. Elaquim Mangala, Martin Montoya, Ezequiel Garay and Toni Lato did not look like part of a defence that has conceded 61 goals in 35 games this season. In fact, Real Madrid often struggled to break down Los Che’s backline, who are the fifth worst in La Liga.
The other 5 minutes of the game is why Valencia sit 12th in the table – Mangala and Garay both switched off uncharacteristically when Carvajal crossed for Ronaldo’s goal – the duo dealt with every other cross masterfully today. When Dani Parejo offered them a lifeline with his free-kick, Valencia showed why they’re not a top team.
Marcelo had troubled Montoya for most of the game, but was allowed to face the Valencia right-back in a one-on-one situation with no support in the 86th minute. Diego Alves’ crestfallen look spoke volumes – there is only so much he can do. Los Che have some fine defenders individually, but if they want to return to the top of La Liga, they’ll need more – they’ll need teamwork.
