Carreras exorcises Valencia demons with crucial strike
The young Spanish left-back scored his second goal against Valencia this season, opening the scoring when Madrid needed it most at Mestalla.
Real Madrid’s Álvaro Carreras has developed quite the habit of netting against Valencia, with his crucial opener at Mestalla proving far more valuable than his previous effort against Los Che.
Valencia: Carreras’ favourite dance partner
When Madrid found themselves in a proper pickle against Valencia, struggling to create anything of note around the penalty area, it was the young Galician who stepped up with a moment of individual brilliance.
Surrounded by defenders inside the box, Carreras produced a bit of fancy footwork before unleashing a low right-footed strike – not his favoured peg – that nestled in off the post past a surprised Dimitrievski. Talk about catching everyone on the hop!
The goal was absolutely crucial for Arbeloa’s lads, putting them just a single point behind Barcelona in what’s shaping up to be a proper title race.
Redemption arc
This strike will taste particularly sweet for Carreras after what’s been a right old week for the youngster. He lost his place in the starting eleven against Rayo Vallecano, with Camavinga – not even a natural left-back – preferred in his position. The decision came after Benfica gave Madrid the runaround down his flank in their previous European outing, leaving Arbeloa with concerns about his defensive capabilities.
But the gaffer showed faith by restoring him to the lineup at Mestalla, and the boy repaid him in spades. This goal also helps wash away some of the disappointment from that missed opportunity against Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup that could’ve sent the match to extra time.
From Benfica to Madrid
Carreras’ attacking prowess was one of the key attributes that caught Madrid’s eye during his time at Benfica, where he bagged four goals last season. His ability to surge forward from deep positions and contribute in the final third makes him a proper modern full-back – exactly what the doctor ordered for this Madrid side.
The door that slammed shut in Jeddah has swung wide open in Valencia, and Carreras has walked right through it with the confidence of a player who knows his worth.