Gareth Bale
Gareth Bale was one of the few players who could be handed any credit after Real Madrid’s 1-0 defeat at the hands of Villarreal last weekend and the Welshman went on to follow it up with a stunning four goal performance in the 10-2 victory over Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.
While Vallecano most certainly did not help themselves by getting two players sent off before the half an hour mark, Bale still had to convert the chances that came his way and he did so with much aplomb.
Apart from Bale’s four goal tally, what would have pleased the Real Madrid fans even more is the fact that the Welshman combined wonderfully well with Cristiano Ronaldo throughout the course of the game.
Karim Benzema
Another man who desperately needed goals ahead of the game was striker Karim Benzema and he managed to take full advantage of Vallecano’s plight by scoring a wonderful hattrick on the night.
While the Frenchman endured a very quiet start to the game, he really burst into action during the second period and all of his goals were a result of his quality movements inside the box.
Strikers need confidence in order to perform and Madrid will be hopeful that the three goals against Vallecano will help Benzema go on a good run of form during the festive period.
James Rodriguez
While Cristiano Ronaldo managed to get a brace during the clash, midfielder James Rodriguez perhaps outshined the Portuguese star even though he did not get himself on the score sheet.
Much like Benzema, Rodriguez did not enjoy a good start but he really game into the fore after Madrid went 3-2 up and set up three goals with brilliant assists.
It has been a frustrating campaign for Rodriguez so far due to a host of injuries but much like most of his teammates, the Colombian star will now be hopeful of kicking on following a fine display.
