Benzema was again the man of the match |
Arbeloa and Pepe made the starting eleven in defence. Real Madrid were slightly more relaxed thanks to the one goal advantage on aggregate they had thanks to the 3-2 win in the first leg at the Bernabeu. It was up to Malaga to take risks, but they didn't try too hard for goals and the Whites ended up keeping possession of the ball. Sergio Ramos had the best chance to score from a header that missed the mark by inches (44'). Khedira had to leave the pitch one minute before that due to injury and was replaced by Ozil.
Marcelo came on for Kaka in the second half and Madrid continued to keep possession of the ball. They started to have chances on goal and a Ronaldo header in the 62nd minute was masterfully cleared by Caballero.
Benzema came on for Higuain in the 68th minute and it took him only three minutes to score the winner by nutmegging the keeper after receiving and Ozil assist. Malaga received a harsh blow and tried to make a comeback, but Real handled their lead very well and even came close from netting a second strike through a Ramos heel shot that was cleared by the keeper (80'). Arbeloa was sent off on the 87-minute mark and Toulalan had a chance to score the equaliser three minutes later.
Looking to keep their five-point lead, Real Madrid are now focusing on their next league clash against Mallorca, who scored six goals tonight against Real Sociedad.
Summary
Stadium: La Rosaleda
Attendance: 27,000
Goals: 0-1, M. 71: Benzema