Vfl Wolfsburg v Real Madrid, UEFA Champions League 2015-16 - Real Madrid's dismal show at Volkswagen Arena

When the Real Madrid fans discovered that Vfl Wolfsburg will be their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal opponent, they expressed a sigh of relief. In comparison to Atletico Madrid, Manchester City or PSG, they were expected to be less strong; but like cricket, soccer also has that element to create shocks and Wolfsburg shell-shocked Los Blancos and their followers last night. The shock was not that Wolfsburg won, but Real’s pathetic display throughout the night, helped to instill shock waves in the hearts of fans and critics.

Prior to last night’s game, Real had suffered  only a single loss in eleven away matches. Last year’s finalist’s Juventus were the last team to have beaten them. They started off brilliantly, but suffered due to some poor referring which conceded a penalty against Real. Wolfsburg took the lead, but since that goal, Real kept on losing their control over the game and their performance on the pitch ended up in a dismal manner.

Real Madrid's vulnerable defence

Real Madrid were dominant as far as possessions are concerned, but  on the field, they were caught in possession by Wolfsburg. Above all, Real Madrid’s defence was horrifying. In the first half, their defenders failed to win a single tackle and both Marcelo and Danilo were utterly frustrating. I rate Danilo highly, but day by day his performance is hitting the rock bottom and I optimisms are mocking at me. According to Squawka Football, Danilo’s first-half stats say: 0 tackles won, 0 aerial duels won, 0 interceptions, 0 blocks and 0 take-ons. It’s absolutely ridiculous. Even he is struggling in La Liga. Why is such a promising right back struggling needs to be noted. 

Meanwhile, the back four proved highly vulnerable against Wolfsburg’s counter attack. Draxler and Bruno Henrique looked dangerous throughout the night. They exposed the loopholes in Real’s defence and left them reeling in one-to-one situation many times. One must not forget, having conceded just three goals until tonight, Real had the joint best defensive record in the tournament. But last night, they were tested and teased big time by Draxler and Co.

Real Madrid failed to exhibit strength of character 

2-0 down and naturally, you expect one of the best clubs in the world to exhibit strength of character. Real should have attacked, but the goals dented their morale heavily rather than reigniting. Neither Cristiano Ronaldo nor Gareth Bale nor Karim Benzema, were able to rekindle the performance shown during the El Clasico clash as Real’s El Clasico honey gradually ebbed away as the game progressed. 

Wolfsburg’s memorable night 

Wolfsburg took full advantage of Real’s vulnerability at the back and up front. Surely, only dominant possessions are not enough to inject inspiration.  Goal scorer, Maximilian Arnold had a splendid night and has given his side a real chance at a semi final spot. The 21-year old put in a memorable performance and bossed the midfield. Wolfsburg were happy to sit deeper when needed and timed their pressing-game to perfection. Deservedly, the home team were rewarded for this and had multiple chances to score more on the counter. Debutant, Henrique and former Chelsea man, Schurrle had glorious opportunities to extend the lead.  

Then what about Draxler? He was out of this world last night. He was astute on both the wings – got the better of Danilo and Sergio Ramos many times and glided through the pitch was stupendous. He aided his team’s transition from defence to attack and the counterattacking-style-of-play suited him very much.

Hecking’s men might  left to rue about those missed opportunities as they head to Santiago Bernabeu in a week’s time. But to make them rue, Real need to lift their game. Otherwise, there will be none to welcome them at the exit door.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar