Madrid’s derby began with an Argentine influence at its centre, as the unnamed starter played a decisive part in shaping the contest from the opening stages.
Quick facts
- An Argentine player started the Madrid derby.
- He was influential in the early course of the match.
- His involvement led to an opposing player being sent off.
- He also helped create one of the goals.
The Argentine’s contribution went beyond his place in the starting line-up. He helped place the opposition under immediate pressure and was involved in the incident that reduced the rival side to 10 men.
That numerical advantage altered the rhythm of the derby, giving his team greater scope to control the occasion in the Spanish capital.
He also played a part in one of the scoring moves, adding a further decisive intervention to a strong individual display in one of Madrid’s most closely watched fixtures.
