Real Madrid secured a much-needed 4-0 victory over Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu, but the dominant win was marred by a cruel injury blow to Eder Militao.
The Brazilian defender’s heartbreaking knee injury, which saw him stretchered off after a painful twist, cast a shadow over what was otherwise a strong performance from Los Blancos.
Militao, who went down clutching his knee after challenging for a corner, was later diagnosed with a torn ACL, ruling him out for the foreseeable future. His departure meant an early introduction for 21-year-old Raul Asencio, who made his Real Madrid debut in the midst of a tense moment. Manager Carlo Ancelotti admitted the injury crisis is becoming a serious issue for the team, noting that three injuries in the first half is “quite rare.”
Despite the setback, the home side quickly regained their focus. Vinicius Jr. was the star of the night, scoring a brilliant hat-trick that helped Madrid return to winning ways after two consecutive defeats. The Brazilian opened the scoring with a precise finish from the edge of the box, cutting in from the left before firing past Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera.
Jude Bellingham, who has been in scintillating form this season, added a second just before halftime, finishing off a stunning long ball from Asencio with a delicate dink over Herrera. Vinicius then took centre stage again in the second half, as a gorgeous ball from goalkeeper Andriy Lunin set him up for a cool finish after rounding the keeper.
The icing on the cake came late in the game when substitute Brahim Díaz pressured Osasuna’s defence and stole the ball, sliding it across to Vinicius, who made no mistake with his third of the night.
While the performance was a much-needed morale booster, the injury toll continues to mount for Real Madrid. Rodrygo was forced off after just 20 minutes, and Lucas Vazquez also had to be substituted in the second half. With Dani Carvajal and David Alaba already sidelined, Ancelotti’s squad is being stretched thin.
Nevertheless, the 4-0 victory brings Real Madrid to within six points of La Liga leaders Barcelona, though the Blaugrana could extend their lead with a win over Real Sociedad on Sunday.
The win was important, but the scars left by Militao’s injury will linger for Madrid as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
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