Real Madrid player ratings as Karim Benzema and Federico Valverde help Los Blancos to 1-1 draw at Valencia

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  • Thibaut Courtois had a big part to play as Real Madrid rescued a point at Valencia on Sunday night.

    After Carles Soler had put the hosts ahead at the Mestalla in the 78th minute, the Madrid keeper was sent forward for a corner kick deep into stoppage time.

    The towering Belgian managed to get a strong header to the delivery and following a save from Jaume Domenech, Karim Benzema pounced on the loose ball to draw his side level.

    The 1-1 result means Madrid go level with Barcelona at the top of La Liga ahead of the meeting between the two sides on Wednesday.

    Here, we rate Madrid’s players.

    STARTING XI (4-3-3)

    Courtois 6 – Helpless against the goal but made some routine saves and his excellent header at the other end led to a dramatic late equaliser.

    Carvajal 5 – A little rash with his tackling but got forward often and whipped in crosses.

    Varane 6 – Swept up well as the last man. Good with his distribution as nine of his 10 long balls found their targets.

    Ramos 6 – The more proactive of the two centre-backs and made some good tackles.

    Nacho 5 – Good cross for Benezema in the first half. Decent display on his return from injury until his weak attempted header led to the goal.

    Modric 6 – The most attacking of the central midfielders and played some good stuff but couldn’t break Valencia’s low block.

    Valverde 7 – Fantastic strike was saved early on after a one-two with Benzema. Seemed to win every loose ball.

    Kroos 7 – Distributed the ball impeccably. Not much thrust to his passes but flawless in keeping possession and bringing others into play.

    Rodrygo 5 – An underwhelming display from the youngster though not lacking in effort as he tracked back well. Lost the ball numerous times.

    Benzema 7 – Glancing header went just wide early on. Excellent movement and link-up play throughout. Snatched a point with the last kick of the game.

    Isco 4 – A forgetful night for the Spaniard. Never seemed to get involved in the game.

    SUBS

    Bale (69′) 6 – Excellent corner found Courtois in the dying seconds and led to the goal.

    Vnicius (69′) 5 – Offered pace and threat but lacked end product.

    Jovic (81′) N/A – Had the ball in the back of the net but was offside.

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