First half did not have a clear dominant and, even though Madrid had more possession, they were unable to create chances. The first important play took place in the 13 minute. Valladolid´s midfielder Joaquín Fernández took the risk to be sent off after an excessive and unnecessary tackle over Rodrygo. Kroos took the free kick and Casemiro scored through a header from the second post, but he was slightly offside and the goal was disallowed.
Valladolid really complicated Madrid in the midfield with a system formed by two close lines of four players each to hold Madrid from progressing upward. Isco and Modric could not participate too much due to Valladolid´s effective positioning, and Madrid did not find the way to use the wings either as Carvajal was suspended for tonight´s match.
Valladolid was comfortable and looked to connect with forwards Enes Ünal and Sergi Guardiola, but the home team only troubled Courtois through a couple of dangerous crosses.
Madrid improved in the second half. Rodrygo had the first chance with a shot from the box that Valladolid keeper Masip reflected. Benzema received a good cross from Isco, but the French forward did not complete the pass to Modric to score. Madrid had increased their ball movement and Valladolid were putting up as they could.
Benzema warned again with a header that almost touched the post, but right back Nacho was the one who ended up opening the scoreboard thanks to a great header from an excellent cross by Kroos.
Valladolid tried to force Madrid to fall back in the last minutes and had their chance through a header from Guardiola that went in but was not conceded due to an offside, and the final effort was not enough to get the draw.
Madrid, who abused too much with constant crosses through the whole game finally found the win thanks to a header that puts them in the top of the table.
