Amidst Injuries, Young Gun at Real Madrid Delivers Nine Goal Contributions in Style

Amidst Injuries, Young Gun at Real Madrid Delivers Nine Goal Contributions in Style

Isaac Darko
updated at February 13, 2024 at 11:54 AM
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  • Rodrygo propelled Real Madrid to the top of La Liga by scoring two goals against Cadiz
  • The Brazilian forward additionally assisted in a goal for Jude Bellingham
  • The electrifying winger has contributed to 9 goals in his last three games for Real Madrid

Rodrygo de Goes is weaving a captivating tale this season at Spanish giants Real Madrid.

Despite a lacklustre start with just one goal in 12 league appearances, scored on matchday one against Athletic Club, and a lone assist against Las Palmas in gameweek two, the Brazilian is now enjoying a positive phase in his football journey.

Rodrygo de Goes, Real Madrid, Cadiz
Rodrygo celebrates the first of his two goals in Real Madrid's easy victory over Cadiz. Photo by Cristina Quicler
Source: AFP

Despite Rodrygo's recent performances, he retained his status as a consistent starter for Carlo Ancelotti in the ongoing season, with the manager actively working to assimilate him into the front three alongside Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham.

Recognising Rodrygo's contributions, Real Madrid demonstrated their satisfaction by formalising a contract extension on November 2nd, a negotiation process that had been in progress for several months, per Marca.

This revised agreement not only witnessed a substantial increase in Rodrygo's salary but also introduced a new €1 billion release clause, further solidifying his commitment to the club.

Goals are pouring down for Rodrygo

Subsequent to the contract renewal on November 2nd, Real Madrid engaged in a goalless draw against Rayo Vallecano. Although Rodrygo wasn't in the starting lineup, he joined the match in the 70th minute. Despite the limited time available for him to exert a significant influence, the most remarkable moments were yet to unfold.

In the subsequent fixture against SC Braga in the Champions League, Rodrygo showcased his prowess by scoring a goal and providing an assist to Brahim Diaz, per Reuters.

The momentum continued in the following match against Valencia, where Madrid secured a resounding 5-1 victory. While Daniel Carvajal initiated the scoring, Rodrygo took centre stage by contributing to both of Vinicius Junior's goals and adding the fourth and fifth goals himself.

This outstanding performance concluded with Rodrygo tallying two goals and two assists in the game.

Rodrygo's goalscoring spree continues

Returning from the international break with a knee discomfort, Rodrygo was initially not anticipated to start against Cadiz. However, when Brahim Diaz had to withdraw from the starting lineup due to stomach problems, the Brazilian was called upon to fill the void.

This unexpected decision proved to be a success for Madrid, as Rodrygo played a pivotal role in all three goals, contributing significantly to their 3-0 victory.

The highlight was his exceptional solo goal, weaving through four defenders and slotting it into the top right corner. He added another goal in the 64th minute by manoeuvering past two defenders and smashing it into the net.

To cap it off, he assisted Bellingham in the 74th minute, contributing to a stellar finish that found the bottom corner.

Rodrygo: the new 'Mr. Clutch' for Real Madrid

Rodrygo showcased his pivotal role for Madrid in the 2021/22 Champions League campaign by delivering crucial performances, notably scoring against formidable opponents like Chelsea and Manchester City.

Demonstrating his ability to rescue Los Blancos from challenging situations, Rodrygo has consistently proven his mettle. Amidst the unfortunate wave of injuries impacting key players such as Vincius, Arda Guler, and Bellingham, Rodrygo stepped into the breach and admirably shouldered the responsibility.

His exceptional nine-goal contributions in the last four games, following the contract extension, have substantially bolstered his season tally to seven goals and five assists across both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.

Consequently, Real Madrid currently occupies the top spot on the table, even if temporarily, and with Rodrygo maintaining this exceptional form, they present a formidable challenge for any contenders attempting to dislodge them.

Rodrygo dazzles with incredible skills

Real Madrid narrowed the gap to their title rivals, Girona, with a 5-1 victory over Ruben Baraja's Valencia side, Sports Brief reported.

Brazilian forward Rodrygo Goes delivered a masterclass performance for the team, playing a pivotal role in four of his side's five goals.

The young attacker scored two goals, as well as assisted two other goals for Brazilian teammate Vinicius Junior, as Madrid ran riot.

Authors
Isaac Darko photo
Isaac Darko
Isaac Darko is a La Liga, Ligue 1 and Bundesliga editor at Sports Brief with a Degree in Journalism and Communications from Ghana Institute of Journalism (2010)
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