2023-24 La Liga Matchday 10 featured a highly anticipated showdown between Real Madrid and Sevilla, known as the Ramos Derby. The match concluded with a 1-1 draw, and it garnered significant attention due to the return of Sergio Ramos to face his former club, Real Madrid.
In the game, Real Madrid lined up with Kepa Arrizabalaga as the goalkeeper, while Ferland Mendy, David Alaba, Antonio Rüdiger, and Dani Carvajal formed the back four. In the midfield, Aurelien Tchouaméni, Toni Kroos, Federico Valverde, and Jude Bellingham played in a diamond formation. Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo were deployed as the two front strikers, shaping a 4-4-2 diamond formation.
The attacking strategy focused on Vinicius and Rodrygo, with Jude Bellingham supporting box penetration from the diamond’s apex. However, there were shortcomings in their attacking patterns, particularly in the players’ movement. The Sevilla defense, well-organized around Ramos, stood firm, preventing Real Madrid from creating fluid attacking plays. The attacking patterns left much to be desired, as Vinicius and Rodrygo’s movements often shifted towards the left flank, resulting in congestion in the narrow spaces, particularly on the left side.
Sevilla, under Ramos’ leadership, maintained a strong defensive structure, with a focus on physical battles and winning aerial duels. This thwarted Real Madrid’s attacking flow, and their offensive output was limited. The lack of precision in Real Madrid’s attacking movements, particularly the leftward bias in Vinicius and Rodrygo’s movements, became a significant issue.
Despite these challenges, Rodrygo managed to create some threatening opportunities. However, Sevilla’s resolute defense meant that the success rate of these chances was lower. A tactical adjustment with a focus on ball possession and physical dominance could have been more effective, particularly considering Vinicius and Jude Bellingham’s attributes.
One standout performer in the match was Dani Carvajal. He played a pivotal role by making crucial clearances, blocks, and interceptions, along with contributing offensively by scoring a header to level the score at 1-1. Carvajal’s performance was pivotal in both attack and defense, ensuring that Real Madrid avoided defeat in their away match against Sevilla.
This match also marked the return of Sergio Ramos to face his former club. Ramos’ tenacity, defensive prowess, and gamesmanship were evident throughout the game. The battle between Ramos and Antonio Rudiger was particularly intense and added an extra layer of intrigue to the match.
However, after the game, Ramos showed respect and sportsmanship by exchanging greetings with his former teammates from Real Madrid, putting a positive end to the competitive encounter. The anticipation is high for their next meeting, which is set to take place at Santiago Bernabeu, and Ramos is expected to have another memorable performance.
This match had additional significance for Real Madrid as they marked their 3000th La Liga game. While it was a memorable milestone, the draw left a sense of missed opportunity, reflecting the live history of La Liga.
In summary, the match showcased Real Madrid’s challenges, particularly in their full-back positions, where Ferland Mendy’s defensive abilities have come under scrutiny. It also raised questions about the inclusion of Eduardo Camavinga and Luca Modric in the squad, as their performances did not meet the expected standards. The tactical rigidity of Carlo Ancelotti’s “My Way” approach remains a topic of debate, and the hope for potential changes in the coaching staff is a growing sentiment among the Real Madrid fan base.