The out of favour Gareth Bale opened the scoring in the eighth minute, enjoying one of his better displays. Borja Mayoral doubled Real’s lead from a Mateo Kovavic cross just before half-time.
Leganes did pull a goal back through Darko Brasanac but the hosts held on for the win.
Here’s how the Madrid players performed.
STARTING XI
Kiko Casilla 6 – Wasn’t tested to a great degree but did make a couple of decent saves.
Achraf Hakimi 8 – Looks a good prospect. Excellent going forward, making more dribbles (5) than anyone else and delivered some good crosses. Made a good last man tackle as well.
Jesus Vallejo 6 – Solid at the back. Good on the ball. A very assured display.
Casemiro 5 – Moved into the centre of defence and was average at best. A few clearances but nothing to shout about. Often left his position to close down aggressively.
Theo Hernandez 5 – Beaten too easily by Nordin Amrabat who got past him in the box to set up the goal.
Gareth Bale 8 – Had one of his better games this season as he enjoyed the spotlight in a weakened side. Scored the opener and was a constant threat.
Marcos Llorente 5 – Kept possession well couldn’t affect the game in attack or defence.
Mateo Kovacic 6 – Was accurate with his passing and put in an assured performance alongside Llorente in midfield. His cross led to the second goal.
Dani Ceballos 6 – Had a couple of good opportunities he didn’t make the most of. Otherwise did well enough on the left flank.
Borja Mayoral 7 – Should’ve done better with a shot in the first half but was on hand to stab home the second goal.
Karim Benzema 6 – Donning the captain’s armband, he did what he does best – created space and opportunities for those around him.
SUBSTITUTES
Marco Asensio 5 – Replaced Benzema in the 62nd minute and didn’t make an impact.
Toni Kroos 6 – Came on for Kovacic and helped see Madrid over the line.
