Real Madrid deservedly won their away game at relegated Granada 4:0. The Spanish champions, who had already been crowned champions, needed a little time to get going before Brahim Diaz in particular sparkled with joy
The performances of the two Champions League finalists could not have been more different: Real Madrid (2:1 against Bayern) and BVB (1:0 in Paris) had a parallel date for their must-win fixtures in the league – Dortmund went down to a 3:0 defeat at Mainz, while the Spanish champions outclassed Granada 4:0 after the stalemate.
The Whites, who made ten changes to their starting line-up and also had Courtois in goal and relied solely on Rüdiger, took things very slowly in Andalusia in the first half. As a result, the relegated side had the first chance of the game – but birthday boy Courtois steered Bruno Mendez’s header over the crossbar (20′).
Special debut for Fran Garcia
A disappointing first half for Real was already drawing to a close when the Blancos struck from absolutely nowhere: after a cross from Brahim Diaz, the promoted Fran Garcia fired in his first ever competitive goal for the Real professionals, including a kiss on the crest (38′).
Granada were already thinking about the break when Fran Garcia – sent on by Brahim Diaz – prepared perfectly for Arda Güler. The 2:0 was the young Turk’s third La Liga goal in his eighth appearance (45.+2).
Anyone expecting Granada to mount a comeback after the break was proved wrong. Brahim Diaz in particular was really up for the game, and the fine technician followed up a final and penultimate pass with a brace after the break: After his 3:0 – a solo run from the halfway line across half the pitch – even some Granada fans applauded (49′), the 4:0 was set up by Modric (58′).
Bayern terror Joselu artistic – but unsuccessful
The same Modric was given a big round of applause by the entire stadium when he was substituted – in view of his probable departure from Spain (70′). Shortly before that, Joselu had the 5:0 on his feet, but failed to score with an artful heel (66′). It was not the day of the Bayern shocker, who missed several chances
In the final quarter of an hour – Kroos was now also involved – Real shifted down several gears and managed the lead with aplomb. Now on 90 points, they will continue their campaign on Tuesday when Deportivo Alaves visit the Bernabeu.
