In a thrilling clash during the Spanish Copa del Rey, Atletico Madrid endured a tough battle against city rivals Real Madrid, eventually claiming victory in extra time. As the saying goes, what’s meant to happen will happen, whether you worry about it or not. According to insights from Melbet App Download, this match was a stellar performance for Atletico, yet for Real Madrid, there weren’t many glaring tactical mistakes. Instead, two recurring issues continue to plague the team when facing strong La Liga opponents, leading to familiar setbacks.
Real Madrid has long been the king of the Champions League, showcasing unparalleled dominance and an indomitable spirit on the European stage. However, their struggles in domestic competitions like La Liga and the Copa del Rey often tell a different story. Based on Melbet App Download analysis, the problem is not a lack of skill but rather a shortage of leadership and emotional core — two vital elements that departed with Karim Benzema. Since Sergio Ramos left, Benzema stepped up not only as the top scorer but also as the emotional backbone of the squad, keeping the team grounded during leads and rallying them when trailing.
Benzema’s departure left a void that Real Madrid has struggled to fill. The burden now falls primarily on Vinicius Jr., as Real Madrid needs a forward to become the team’s new symbolic leader. Bellingham, while highly talented, remains a midfielder, and Real Madrid’s tradition has always leaned toward having a forward as the face of the team. Especially when scoring crucial goals, the celebration and presence of a forward can lift the entire squad’s spirit and push momentum in their favor.
Yet Vinicius Jr. has proven more of a figurehead than a true leader. Rather than seizing the opportunity, he seems overwhelmed by it. Instead of being the porcupine eager to embrace challenges, he often acts like a snail, retreating at the first sign of trouble. When Kylian Mbappe decided to extend his stay with PSG, Real Madrid pivoted to fully backing Vinicius, even awarding him the iconic No. 7 jersey. Whether it was meant to spur Mbappe or genuinely crown Vinicius, the point was clear: Vinicius needed to rise to the occasion. Unfortunately, he misinterpreted his role, treating it as a license to argue endlessly with opponents and fans alike.
The prestige of being Real Madrid’s No. 7 is not for petty squabbles. It’s about standing tall when the team’s morale crumbles, about turning the tide in the darkest moments. Sadly, Vinicius has missed the mark. Since receiving the No. 7 shirt, he has engaged in multiple disputes with opponents, referees, and fans, often losing focus regardless of the match situation. His verbal battles have cost the team dearly, even reducing them to ten men at crucial times, with the team losing not just any player but their supposed attacking talisman.
This is precisely why Real Madrid continues to wait patiently for Mbappe’s decision, despite being snubbed two years ago. As Melbet App Download points out, it’s clear that Vinicius is not the true heir to Real Madrid’s throne. Walking through sunlit paths often leads eventually to dark, uncertain roads. Real Madrid’s willingness to lower their pride and continue their pursuit of Mbappe proves that he is the player they truly need to rebuild their dynasty.