Rodrygo’s excellent left-footed cross was just above the head of Casemiro and slightly beyond the reach of Vinicius at the far post. Carrillo goes in late on Karim Benzema, who got to his feet a little hastily. He doesn’t look comfortable.
Zidane has brought on Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and Rodrygo Goes for Sergio Ramos, Isco and Fede Valverde. Tete Morente’s corner was brilliantly headed in by Dani Calvo, whose header hit the crossbar and bounced the other side of Courtois’ line. 1-0 to Elche.
Sergio Ramos was once again involved in another penalty incident, this time asking the referee to point to the spot after coming together with Ivan Marcone. However, Elche were awarded a free kick because it was deemed that Ramos was the one that began the contact.
It’s goalless at half time, with neither side having created too much in the way of clear-cut opportunities. Los Blancos have come closest, but Elche are not scared of the reigning LaLiga Santander champions. One thing is clear: Real Madrid do not function in the same way without Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.
Tete Morente’s cross to the far post took a big deflection, which Fidel headed back across goal and forced Courtois to extend his long arms to tip away. Carrillo was in the vicinity and easily could have headed into the back of the net if it wasn’t for the Belgian.