Real Madrid vs Brest, Real produced a dominant display in their Champions League clash against Brest, securing a convincing 3-0 victory. Rodrygo and Jude Bellingham led the charge with spectacular performances, while Kylian Mbappe played a crucial role in the attacking third. However, despite the emphatic win, Los Blancos failed to qualify directly for the Champions League Round of 16, setting up a potentially challenging playoff tie against Manchester City or Celtic.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side controlled the match from start to finish, with Rodrygo scoring twice and Bellingham adding a goal to his impressive tally. Real Madrid’s defense held firm as Thibaut Courtois produced an excellent display to keep a clean sheet. Despite their dominance, results elsewhere meant that Madrid finished 11th in the overall standings, forcing them into an unexpected knockout playoff round.
Real Madrid vs Brest: Rodrygo and Bellingham Inspire Real Madrid to Victory
Real Madrid entered the match knowing that a victory was crucial for their progression in the tournament. From the opening minutes, Rodrygo and Mbappe looked dangerous, creating early chances that tested Brest goalkeeper Marco Bizot.
The breakthrough came in the 27th minute when Rodrygo displayed his trademark agility, weaving through the Brest defense before curling a precise shot into the bottom corner. The Brazilian’s opener set the tone for Madrid’s attacking dominance.
Shortly after halftime, Brest nearly equalized, with Ludovic Ajorque scoring a goal, only for it to be ruled offside after a VAR check. Madrid quickly capitalized on this let-off, with Bellingham scoring a well-worked goal after initiating an attacking move from midfield.
The third goal came courtesy of Rodrygo, who reacted first to a parried shot from Mbappe, cleverly flicking the ball past the goalkeeper to secure the win. Real Madrid’s efficient attack ensured that the result was never in doubt, although their qualification hopes were dented by results in other matches.
Real Madrid’s Champions League Playoff Scenario
Despite the 3-0 win, Madrid’s overall Champions League ranking placed them in the knockout playoff round, where they will now face either Manchester City or Celtic. This unexpected scenario means Ancelotti’s men must navigate a tough two-legged tie to book their place in the last 16.
While Madrid showed tactical brilliance and attacking firepower against Brest, they must now prepare for a potential showdown against City, who remain one of the strongest teams in the tournament.
🏁 @SB29 0-3 @RealMadridEn
⚽ 27′ @RodrygoGoes
⚽ 56′ @BellinghamJude
⚽ 78′ @RodrygoGoes pic.twitter.com/9xrbwebpYW— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) January 29, 2025
Real Madrid vs Brest Player Ratings
Goalkeeper & Defense
Thibaut Courtois – 8/10
Produced vital early saves to maintain Madrid’s clean sheet. Commanded his box well and distributed the ball efficiently.
Lucas Vazquez – 7/10
Energetic on the right flank, contributing to both defense and attack. Substituted in the second half after a solid display.
Aurelien Tchouameni – 6/10
Targeted by Brest’s attackers, but held his own in crucial moments. Still adjusting to playing as a makeshift center-back.
Antonio Rudiger – 7/10
Strong and commanding in defense. Produced a crucial clearance with his head to deny Brest a clear-cut chance.
Ferland Mendy – 6/10
Defensively sound but less involved in the attack compared to recent performances. May face competition for his spot from Fran Garcia.
Midfield
Federico Valverde – 6/10
Not at his best, struggled to assert dominance in midfield. Looked fatigued at times.
Luka Modric – 7/10
Graceful and composed in midfield, picking out smart passes. Linked well with Mbappe and Rodrygo.
Jude Bellingham – 8/10
Yet another standout performance from the English midfielder. Pressed aggressively, picked up excellent spaces, and scored a well-taken goal.
Attack
Brahim Diaz – 5/10
Struggled to make an impact. No shots on target and lacked creativity in attack.
Kylian Mbappe – 7/10
Looked lively despite heavy boos from the Brest crowd. Unlucky not to score but played a crucial role in Rodrygo’s second goal.
Rodrygo – 8/10
Man of the Match performance. Scored twice, showed great movement, and was a constant attacking threat.
Substitutes & Manager
Arda Guler – 6/10
Injected creativity but did not influence the scoreline.
David Alaba – N/A
Returned from injury, a positive sign for Madrid’s defense.
Raul Asencio – N/A
No time to make an impact.
Dani Ceballos – N/A
Limited minutes on the pitch.
Endrick – N/A
Came on in the final moments.
Carlo Ancelotti – 8/10
Got his tactics right, with Real Madrid in complete control. However, must now prepare for a Champions League playoff battle.
What’s Next for Real Madrid?
With the Champions League playoff round looming, Real Madrid will shift focus to their La Liga campaign, where they continue to fight for the title. Ancelotti’s squad depth will be tested in the coming weeks, with the likes of Rodrygo, Mbappe, and Bellingham playing pivotal roles.
Madrid’s immediate concern will be whether they can avoid a daunting clash against Manchester City in the next round. If they fail to navigate the playoff round, their Champions League journey could come to a premature end, a scenario Los Blancos will be desperate to avoid.
Conclusion: Real Madrid Must Prepare for a Tough Champions League Playoff
Real Madrid’s 3-0 victory over Brest showcased their attacking power, with Rodrygo and Jude Bellingham stealing the spotlight. However, despite their dominant performance, the team’s overall Champions League ranking means they must now battle through a playoff round against Manchester City or Celtic.
With Ancelotti’s side continuing their La Liga title charge, their Champions League fate hangs in the balance. Rodrygo, Bellingham, and Mbappe will be instrumental as Madrid aims to conquer Europe once again.
🗣️ @MrAncelotti: “It was a good game, we played well and we were a solid and serious team”.
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) January 29, 2025
FAQs: Real Madrid vs Brest Player Ratings
1. Who was the best player for Real Madrid against Brest?
Rodrygo was the standout performer, scoring twice and creating several chances. Jude Bellingham also impressed with a goal and dominant display.
2. Why did Real Madrid not qualify directly for the Champions League last 16?
Despite their 3-0 win, results elsewhere meant that Madrid finished 11th overall, forcing them into a knockout playoff tie.
3. Who will Real Madrid face in the Champions League playoff round?
Madrid will face either Manchester City or Celtic in the playoff round to secure a place in the Champions League last 16.
4. How did Kylian Mbappe perform against Brest?
Mbappe played well, assisting Rodrygo’s second goal but was unlucky not to score. He was booed by the Brest fans throughout the match.
5. What’s next for Real Madrid after the Brest game?
Madrid will shift focus to La Liga, aiming to maintain their lead at the top of the table, while also preparing for the Champions League knockout playoff.
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