Real Madrid 2–0 Getafe

Dani Ceballos returned to Real Madrid’s starting line-up in La Liga and delivered a strong performance during their 2-0 victory over Getafe at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The match showcased Madrid’s solid approach from the first whistle to the last. While there were some nervy moments towards the end, the team displayed unity, staying compact and ensuring they walked away with three valuable points.

"It was a very solid match from start to finish. It’s true that we struggled a bit at the end to close out the game, but the team was very united and compact and we played a great game," the midfielder told Real Madrid TV.

Getafe, known for its disciplined low-block defensive setup and ability to concede very few goals, made life difficult for Madrid. However, Los Blancos started the game with a high tempo, creating early chances and converting two of them to take control.

"Getafe is a very compact team that has conceded very few goals, that defends very well in a low block, but the team came out with good rhythm and we had chances. We scored the first two we had and from then on the game was different."

This victory puts Real Madrid in a promising position in La Liga, trailing the leaders by just one point with a game in hand. Their pending fixture against Valencia offers an opportunity to close the gap further.

"The only way to catch Barcelona is by adding three points at a time and we are doing that. On Wednesday we have another difficult game and it is a good time to continue reducing the points and hopefully, it will depend on us," he added.

Furthermore, defender Antonio Rudiger also reflected on the team’s performance and acknowledged the importance of this win. Despite a controversial penalty decision that favoured Madrid, the team made the most of their chances.

"We have to be happy with the three points but we are left with the feeling that we could have scored a few more goals. We were very good from the start," he said.

He emphasised that the team performed well but highlighted the importance of maintaining focus and consistency, especially as Real Madrid competes on multiple fronts in La Liga and the Champions League.

"Things are going well in La Liga since the last defeat, but we can’t get distracted because this is what Real Madrid demands. We have to continue like this in La Liga and do better in the Champions League."

The defender praised the collective defensive effort, particularly the communication within the backline, and commended the contributions of youth player Raul Asencio and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

"The defence starts with those up front and that’s where we’ve improved. In defence, with Raul, Courtois and the entire defensive line, there’s a lot of communication, which is very important.

“I want to congratulate Raúl because he’s doing a fantastic job," he said.

The victory over Getafe not only adds to Madrid’s momentum but also keeps their title hopes alive as they continue to fight for dominance in both domestic and European competitions.