Three answers and three questions from Real Madrids win at Napoli

Real Madrid won 3-2 against Napoli in a thrilling Champions League match. Jude Bellingham stood out with a goal and assist.

In what was anticipated to be a challenging match for Real Madrid in their Champions League group, they emerged victorious with a 3-2 win against Napoli. The game showcased exceptional football from both sides, but it was Jude Bellingham who stood out as he contributed with a goal and an assist. After such an exhilarating match, there are several questions to be addressed both before and after the game.

This particular Champions League group game held immense significance for Real Madrid, as facing a club like Napoli at this stage of the tournament added an element of importance and risk rarely experienced in the group stages. With an abundance of star players on both teams, it was expected that this match would be a spectacle. And indeed, it lived up to the hype, delivering one of the highest-quality football games of the year. The stars shone as anticipated, and Real Madrid secured a crucial three points, propelling them closer to the last 16.

One of the pre-match questions revolved around the performance of the Bellingham-Vinícius-Rodrygo front three. Although this was only the fourth time they started together in the season, they showcased their potential in this tough test against Napoli. Bellingham, in particular, was exceptional, intercepting the ball and assisting Vinícius for Real Madrid's first goal, before scoring an impressive solo goal himself. The trio displayed promising combinations in attack, although Rodrygo still has room for improvement. Nevertheless, it was an enjoyable experience witnessing this dynamic front trident in action.

Another pre-match concern centered around Real Madrid players avoiding yellow cards, considering the referee for the game, Clément Turpin, had a reputation for brandishing them. With the aim of minimizing suspensions in the knockout rounds, it was crucial for Real Madrid to exercise caution. Ultimately, there were four bookings in the match, with Camavinga, Bellingham, and Kepa receiving unnecessary yellow cards. This serves as a reminder for the players to be mindful of their conduct in future Champions League games, as accumulated cards are only cleared in the semi-finals.

Fede Valverde's goal, although not officially credited to him as it rebounded off the crossbar and in off Alex Meret, was a strike that could have won any game. The sheer power and velocity of the shot were awe-inspiring, leaving spectators wondering how it didn't break Meret's hands. It was an absolute rocket that showcased Valverde's exceptional striking ability.

While Valverde's goal overshadowed it, the penalty call that allowed Napoli to equalize will undoubtedly be a topic of discussion long after the game. Although Nacho's hands made contact with the ball while defending a cross, it was evident to anyone familiar with football that he had no other place for his arms in that defensive move. This incident highlights the need for a reevaluation of the handball rule.

The decision to start Camavinga at left-back for two consecutive games, despite having natural left-backs Mendy and Fran García available, raised eyebrows. While it may have made sense as a one-off in the previous game against Girona, it became questionable when repeated. Mendy and Fran García must have been perplexed as they found themselves on the bench. Camavinga, however, proved once again that he is as capable at left-back as anyone. Eventually, with Camavinga on a yellow card, Ancelotti opted to bring in Mendy. Nevertheless, this situation raises concerns for Mendy and Fran García if their only opportunity to play is when Camavinga is unavailable.

In conclusion, Real Madrid's victory against Napoli in the Champions League group stage provided an enthralling display of football. The match exceeded expectations, with standout performances from Bellingham and an exceptional goal from Valverde. While there are still areas for improvement, such as minimizing unnecessary yellow cards and reevaluating the handball rule, Real Madrid showcased their strength and potential in this challenging fixture.

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