Real Madrid’s 4-1 European win brought another perfect step in their Champions League campaign, taking them to nine points from nine, but it also left José Mourinho with selection questions before the Clásico at Camp Nou. The scoreline was emphatic; the performance, particularly before the break, was less secure than the final result suggested.
A new midfield formula under examination
Mourinho again used a 4-2-3-1, retaining the blend of control and physicality in central midfield that he has recently favoured. Eduardo Camavinga supplied the running and strength, while Bernardo Silva was asked to set the rhythm.
- Federico Valverde started on the right, given licence to work the entire flank and make an impact in the air.
- Arda Güler began from the right-wing role and was Madrid’s outstanding attacking player over the opening half-hour, when the side were still finding their shape.
- Bernardo Silva also took encouragement from the night, getting on the scoresheet in a performance that may help him emerge more prominently in Mourinho’s plans.
Madrid were tested defensively by the Norwegian winger Nusa, who repeatedly caused problems down his side. Valverde suffered at times against him, even though his contribution further forward remained valuable.
Diomande changes the picture on the left
Vinicius Junior had two dangerous inside runs and forced the goalkeeper into the two finest saves of the evening, but otherwise did not reach his usual level. He did not attempt a single dribble and left the pitch looking frustrated, aware that he needs to offer more.
There is a possible explanation in the feeling that Vinicius no longer has quite the same explosive speed, making him less willing to take on defenders. Whatever the reason, the contrast with Diomande was stark once the substitute entered the contest.
- Diomande created Kylian Mbappé’s goal for Madrid’s third.
- He then struck the fourth himself with a powerful volley.
- His brief display was more forceful than Vinicius’s night and has intensified the debate over the future of that position.
Vinicius’s suspension will hurt the player personally, but Madrid appear well placed to cope without him at present. Diomande’s form has given Mourinho a credible alternative just as the schedule tightens.
Camp Nou decision awaits Mourinho
The major tactical issue now is whether Mourinho keeps this double pivot against Barcelona or adjusts it to disrupt Barça more directly in midfield. His first spell in Madrid offered a reminder of his willingness to alter the side for that fixture: Pepe was sometimes pushed into midfield to provide extra protection.
For now, Madrid can carry the confidence of a three-win start into the next European phase. The 4-1 result may have glossed over periods of instability, but their ability to finish chances ruthlessly and rely on a special goalkeeper remains decisive. Elsewhere, Betis have also opened the Champions League season with nine points from nine, standing firm alongside Madrid in Europe’s early rounds.
