In a thrilling La Liga encounter, Cristiano Ronaldo delivered a masterclass, scoring a perfect hat-trick (left foot, right foot, and header) as Real Madrid dismantled Real Sociedad 5-2 at the Santiago Bernabéu. The victory provided much-needed relief for Zinedine Zidane’s side, who had been under scrutiny following inconsistent performances.
A Lightning Start for Los Blancos
Real Madrid wasted no time asserting dominance, with Lucas Vázquez heading home after just 48 seconds—the fastest goal of the La Liga season. Ronaldo’s pinpoint cross found the winger, who capitalized on a defensive lapse from Aritz Elustondo.
The hosts continued to press, and Ronaldo doubled the lead in the 27th minute, slotting home from Marcelo’s low cross. Seven minutes later, Toni Kroos curled in a sensational third, showcasing his trademark precision from outside the box.
Ronaldo’s Hat-Trick Heroics
Ronaldo wasn’t done yet. Just before halftime, he powered in a header from Luka Modrić’s corner, completing the first half of his perfect hat-trick. The Portuguese superstar’s movement and finishing were a reminder of his enduring class, despite a slower-than-usual league campaign.
Real Sociedad showed signs of life in the second half, with substitute Jon Bautista pulling one back in the 74th minute. However, Ronaldo sealed his 43rd hat-trick for Real Madrid by tapping in after Gerónimo Rulli spilled Gareth Bale’s fierce strike.
Defensive Lapses and Late Consolation
While Madrid’s attack flourished, defensive complacency allowed Sociedad to score again through Asier Illarramendi, who capitalized on a loose ball in the box. Nevertheless, the result was never in doubt, as Madrid climbed to third in La Liga, narrowing the gap on league leaders Barcelona.
Crickex Player Ratings
Real Madrid
- Keylor Navas (6) – Made crucial saves but could’ve done better on Sociedad’s goals.
- Marcelo (7) – A constant threat down the left, assisting Ronaldo’s first.
- Toni Kroos (8) – Controlled midfield and scored a sublime goal.
- Cristiano Ronaldo (9 – MOTM) – A flawless attacking display with three goals.
Real Sociedad
- Geronimo Rulli (4) – Struggled with shot-stopping, gifting Ronaldo his third.
- Jon Bautista (7) – Provided energy and a well-taken goal off the bench.
Tactical Breakdown
Zidane’s decision to start Vázquez and Marco Asensio over Bale and Casemiro paid dividends, with both wingers contributing to Madrid’s fluid attacking play. Sociedad, meanwhile, lacked defensive cohesion, particularly in dealing with crosses.
What’s Next?
Real Madrid now shift focus to their Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain, a match that could define their season. Sociedad, meanwhile, face Red Bull Salzburg in the Europa League.
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