Real Madrid suffered a new defeat that leaves a bitter taste, especially due to the elimination in the Copa del Rey against Real Sociedad. In Tiempo de Juego, Paco González pointed out one of the most criticized players for his defensive errors in Madrid.
With visible frustration, he exclaimed twice: "Damn, Lucas..." after the consecutive mistakes of a player who, although not a rookie on the team, paid dearly for his errors this time.
A Match That Madrid Saved
Madrid suffered, but they secured the pass to the Copa del Rey final in extra time, but the match was not entirely correct for the white team. In such an important match for a ticket to the Copa del Rey final, the defensive errors took a very high toll.
In the 15th minute, Ander Barrenetxea took advantage of a defensive mismatch, ran down the left wing, and left the white defenders overwhelmed. This play caused a couple of consecutive errors that ended in a goal that compromised Madrid.
Key Defensive Errors
Real Madrid didn't pay only for the errors of one player, but for a set of oversights that became evident. This time, the right wing of the team, where one of its most experienced defenders is located, suffered especially.
Lucas Vázquez couldn't stop Barrenetxea, and the lack of support from Fede Valverde and Rodrygo worsened the situation. This type of defensive mismatch is something that Madrid can't afford, especially in such important competitions.
Moreover, it's not the first time Vázquez is at the center of criticism. Throughout the season, he has accumulated mistakes that have allowed opponents to easily reach the white area. In this sense, his performance has been a constant concern for the team's fans and analysts.
What Future for the Right Back?
What complicates this player's situation even more is that his contract ends this summer. This opens the door to questions about his continuity at the club. With so many doubts about his defensive level, Vázquez's future at Real Madrid could be hanging in the air.
The coming weeks will be key, as the club and the coach, Carlo Ancelotti, will have to make decisions regarding his stay on the team.
The problem lies in that defensive errors are costly, especially when you're fighting to advance in a prestigious competition like the Copa del Rey.