These are dark times at the Spanish capital. Real Madrid's recent form has thrown recently appointed manager Julen Lopetegui's future into jeopardy. Last weekend, they came dangerously close to surpassing the record for the longest spell without a goal at the club in a 2-1 loss. However, tonight went some way towards easing that pressure.
Not since 2009 at Real Madrid lost at home in Europe and they will continue that record thanks to a Karim Benzema bullet header and a sublime Marcelo chip over the keeper.
"Benzemaaa!"
The Frenchman heads Real Madrid in front after a shaky start vs Plzen! Live on Virgin Media Sport Extra 2! #VMSport #UCL pic.twitter.com/bucL4Yd8kf
— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) October 23, 2018
Real Madrid's inability to develop a cohesive attacking unit has been a huge feature of their recent poor form but the return to fitness of Gareth Bale looks crucial to resolving that, as the Welshman laid a fantastic flick pass into the path of Marcelo.
Interestingly, Marcelo pointed to his crest and indicated towards the home fans after his goal. The Santiago Bernabéu faithful waved white handkerchiefs in protest at the current situation during last week's loss against Levante.
Marcelo pointing to his badge during celebration, nobody running to bench to celebrate with Lopetegui though, and he seemed to go back to bench and sit down when ball the net.
— Dermot Corrigan (@dermotmcorrigan) October 23, 2018
Real Madrid get back to winning ways but the boos ring out the Bernabeu! #VMSport #UCL pic.twitter.com/rHESJ4eCqQ
— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) October 23, 2018
It ended 2-1. While the result tonight will be welcomed by Madrid's hierarchy, the real test comes this Sunday as they prepare for El Clásico.
