Betting Analysis
Looking at the 1×2 market first where the favourite Real Madrid made short odds followers seriously sweat before going ahead. Madrid did dominate the second half and won @ 1.50 on this market, but the ride was far more turbulent than most would have expected. It took an incredibly soft and late penalty to turn the game the way of the visitor. The draw was @ 4.75 pre kick off but went around 1.75 before Real Madrid were gifted an 83rd minute spot kick from an accidental handball.
Moving onto the Asian handicap market for this contest, where once more Real Madrid backers can consider themselves fortunate to get the two-goal win. The visiting favourites (-1.25) landed a full win on the Asian handicap @ 2.02 and once again, the controversial penalty helped them across the line.
Looking at The Under/Over market last of all where Under was comfortable winner given it was goalless until the 83rd minute of play. At the same time, Valladolid came extremely close to scoring first and Real Madrid missed a couple of clear chances earlier in the game, so it was far from a dull match. Overall, Under backers would have been confident much of this match to at least not lose their stake.
Match Summary
Real Madrid needed two extremely late Benzema strikes against Valladolid to move top of the table, and the first of his goals was massively controversial in this 2-0 victory.
Real Valladolid gave a strong account of themselves in both defensive and offensive situations, playing a high tempo and showing great commitment in front of a packed and noisy Estadio José Zorrilla.
Despite the absence of Luka Modrić, Camavinga, and Tchouaméni in the starting side, the away team began well and dominated the opening stages.
Ex-Barcelona keeper Jordi Masip played well but Benzema missed a sitter in the best of Los Blancos first half opportunities.
The newly promoted hosts managed to regain composure as the half progressed and Álvaro Aguado forced Courtois into a stunning stop with 10 first-half minutes remaining.
Real Madrid took increasing risks and looked desperate the longer the match continued at 0-0. Valladolid meanwhile ran out of spark and played for the 0-0, dropping deeper as time ran out.
Valladolid striker Sergio León drew another fine save from Courtois while it was 0-0. His header from a set piece was goal bound until the Belgian dived low to palm off the goal-line. The keeper was unarguably Madrid’s best performer on the night.
There would be late drama when a penalty was given to Real, before Sergio León saw red for dissent in the aftermath. Benzema despatched the spot kick and added another before the full-time whistle. Fair score 1-2.
