Vinicius masterclass silences Bernabéu doubters as Madrid run riot

Madrid put on a proper show to welcome Alvaro Arbeloa to the dugout, smashing Monaco for six in what might just be their best performance of the season.

Vini back to his brilliant best

After a bit of stick from the home faithful in recent weeks, Vinicius Jr was absolutely mustard tonight. The Brazilian had a hand in four of Madrid’s six goals, proper running the show from start to finish. Nothing like a Champions League night to get back in the good books with the Bernabéu crowd, is there?

The lad was everywhere - twisting defenders inside out, linking play, and looking every inch the superstar we know he can be. Talk about the perfect response to his critics.

Arbeloa’s dream start

What a way for Alvaro Arbeloa to kick off his stint in the hot seat! The interim gaffer couldn’t have asked for a better first day at the office than this 6-1 demolition job.

The former defender, suddenly thrust into management, saw his tactics pay off handsomely as Los Blancos put on a clinic. If he was feeling the pressure stepping up, he certainly didn’t show it.

Foot and a half in the knockouts

This result does Madrid a world of good in the Champions League standings. They’ve now got more than a toe in the round of 16 - more like a foot and a half, to be honest.

The performance was night and day compared to some of their recent showings. The attack was fluid, the midfield dominant, and the defence rarely troubled except for that one Monaco consolation.

Bernabéu buzzing again

After some tense atmospheres in recent weeks, the Bernabéu was absolutely rocking by full-time. Nothing heals wounds at Real Madrid quite like a European thrashing, and this was medicine the doctor ordered.

The crowd, who’ve been a bit narky with some players lately, were in full voice by the end. Funny how a few goals can change the mood, innit?