A wonderfully invented goal from Isco and a successful foray forward from Casemiro were enough to overcome Romelu Lukaku’s first competitive Manchester United goal on Tuesday, and Real Madrid captured an early piece of silverware in their 2017-18 campaign by defeating Manchester United in the UEFA Super Cup.
Last June, Real became the first club to successfully defend their European title in the Champions League era, and based off the evidence here, they have to be firm UCL favorites this season as well.
For United, Real were always going to be a massive step up from their Europa League final opponents Ajax, but they gave a good showing of themselves. Lukaku got on the scoresheet, Marcus Rashford could’ve snatched an equalizer and Nemanja Matic appears to be a great addition to the midfield.
But Real built a two-goal cushion by the 52nd minute, and Cristiano Ronaldo wasn’t needed for more than an 83rd minute cameo appearance as a substitute. The midfield of Casemiro, Isco, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric dominated proceedings while still looking like they had another gear or two in reserve.
Casemiro gave his side the lead in the 24th minute, shortly after seeing one of his headers come back off the crossbar with David de Gea beaten.
If at first you don't succeed...
Casemiro gives Real Madrid the lead minutes after hitting the crossbar. #SuperCup https://t.co/iJSzdA4PSI— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) August 8, 2017
Shortly after the break, some fantastic combination play between Isco and Gareth Bale scythed open the United defense, and Isco provided the finish.
BenzemaIscoBaleIsco. Real Madrid are making it look easy. #SuperCup https://t.co/dU0vgymhcP
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) August 8, 2017
But seven minutes later, Keylor Navas could only parry an effort from Matic and Lukaku was there for the rebound.
There it is! Romelu Lukaku's first goal for Manchester United. First of many. #SuperCup https://t.co/pl4Wk85iBD
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) August 8, 2017
Ronaldo made his cameo and smashed a free kick miles over the goal, but the full-time whistle marked another trophy for Real manager Zinedine Zidane.
This was his second UEFA Super Cup triumph to go along with two Champions League titles, one La Liga crown and one FIFA Club World Cup. He’s been manager for 1 year and seven months.
The18 Recommends For You
