After a week of mediocre football from Real Madrid, many (including myself) thought that Borussia Dortmund was going to win yesterday. And why wouldn't we? Real Madrid lost at home to Real Betis, Borussia had yet to lose any games in the league, and couldn't stop scoring, tallying 14 goals in three games before the encounter. But, just like they lost 4-0 to Atletico Madrid, and still disqualified them in the Champions League that same year, they mutate into an almost unbeatable beast when it comes to the Champions League.
C.Ronaldo
It's unprofessional and even unfair to call out Cristiano Ronaldo as a primary reason for the victory, as other teammates (that will be brought up), had just as good performances, but he stole the show.
After failing to score against last-placed Alaves and Real Betis, few expected him to have an impact tonight. Speculation got even worse when Marcelo, his main assister, was injured, as reported by Real Madrid's official website. But, just like every other year that he was dismissed as declining, he helped Madrid to their first victory in the Westfalenstadion. Scoring a close-range finish in the 49th minute, and later on a clinical near post strike in the 79th (his 25th goal in 20 appearances against Bundesliga teams, according to Marca). Ronaldo is now second top scorer in the Champions League, only behind "One season wonder" Harry Kane, who netted his 6th hat-trick against APOEL.
Bale and the rest of the squad
Scoring the first goal of the night, Gareth Bale showed the Real Madrid fans why he shouldn't be sold off just yet. Not only did he score an absolute screamer of a goal, he also produced the assist for Ronaldo's first goal.
Providing run's that brought issues to Borussia Dortmund's full backs, Bale was showing glimpses of the full potential that he truly has.
You can watch his goal below;
Sergio Ramos was lucky not to be expelled, after a goal line clearance with his hand, but the fans should be glad he stayed on, as he was excellent in controlling Aubameyang, and making sure he didn't repeat his performance against Mönchengladbach. Just like Barcelona in 2010, Real Madrid can today boast of having the world's best midfield, with Modric and Kroos once again putting sublime performances.
Modric provided amazing passes to Ronaldo and Bale, including an assist in Ronaldo's last goal, while also giving good defensive support, helping Carvajal whenever he made any runs. Kroos helped in distributing the ball, and relieving pressure in the midfield, as well as helping feed Isco, Ronaldo and Bale in attack.
Overall, a great and very unexpected performance from los Merengues, and we can expect a lot more like it, as long as Zinedine Zidane stays as manager.
