Jude Bellingham Narrows the Gap to Barcelona: Key Insights from Girona 0–3 Real Madrid.
The England international scored the winner and provided an assist against Girona, extending his goalscoring streak to five consecutive La Liga matches. Real Madrid’s dominant 3–0 victory over Girona has brought them back within striking distance of Barcelona at the top of the La Liga standings.
Shortly after Barcelona dropped points to Real Betis, Real Madrid secured all three points in Girona. The reigning Spanish and European champions are now just two points behind Barcelona, with a game in hand. Despite a slow start, Real Madrid finished the match with three goals and a clean sheet. Jude Bellingham stood out, scoring in the 36th minute and later assisting Arda Güler’s brilliant strike. Kylian Mbappé also joined the scoring after taking responsibility for Real Madrid’s midweek defeat to Athletic Bilbao.
However, Real Madrid didn’t escape without concerns. Both Bellingham and Ferland Mendy had to leave the pitch due to injury, casting a shadow over an otherwise great performance.
Here are three key takeaways from Real Madrid’s latest La Liga win:
1. Bellingham’s Influence on the Field
It’s clear that Jude Bellingham has been carrying the team in Vinícius Júnior’s absence, and he delivered another stellar performance against Girona. While his winning goal is the highlight, it’s his overall contribution that stood out. Bellingham has now scored in five consecutive La Liga matches, after not finding the net in his first 11 appearances this season. His influence extends far beyond the goals, orchestrating the attack in a manner reminiscent of Toni Kroos. He’s involved in every key moment: from providing assists to making runs into the box to score or set up goals. Off the ball, Bellingham initiates the press, tracks back to regain possession, and even clears the ball from his own penalty area. The 21-year-old’s contributions are invaluable, and Real Madrid’s fortunes would be in serious jeopardy if his injury keeps him sidelined.
2. Arda Güler’s Breakthrough
Arda Güler’s emotional reaction after scoring his first goal of the season highlighted the importance of this moment for the young Turkish star. After a successful debut season, Güler has struggled to find consistent minutes this season, with his opportunities often limited to brief appearances. But against Girona, he finally got his chance, and it paid off. Güler’s quality, particularly his left foot, makes it clear he should be playing a more prominent role in the squad, rather than remaining on the bench. His goal demonstrates that he’s more than capable of contributing to Real Madrid’s attack.
3. Tchouaméni’s Defensive Shift
Carlo Ancelotti made a surprising decision to start Aurélien Tchouaméni alongside Antonio Rüdiger in defense, and it proved to be the right call. Tchouaméni, not a natural center-back, had gained experience in the position last season and delivered a solid defensive performance against Girona. Despite a subpar showing in midfield against Athletic Bilbao, the Frenchman was rock-solid at the back, helping Thibaut Courtois preserve a clean sheet. Tchouaméni committed only one foul in 90 minutes and misplaced just three passes out of 79. He even came close to scoring himself, but was denied by a great save from Paulo Gazzaniga. The decision to start him over 21-year-old Raúl Asencio signals Ancelotti’s trust in Tchouaméni as the team moves forward.
