Sergio Ramos scored his 22nd consecutive penalty on Sunday as Actual Madrid held on for an additional 1-Zero win over Athletic Bilbao to inch nearer to successful La Liga. Ramos’ fifth objective in seven video games because the restart provides Madrid a seven-point lead over Barcelona, who play in a while Sunday at in-form Villarreal. Something however a victory for Barca would in all probability go away them an excessive amount of to do with 4 video games remaining, particularly as Madrid personal the superior report head-to-head.
This was Madrid’s hardest fixture left they usually may need been content material even with some extent in opposition to a strong, well-organised Bilbao facet.
However after edging out Getafe on Thursday, by means of a Ramos spot-kick, Madrid repeated the trick at San Mames, their captain’s nerve from the spot combining with a gutsy show to grind out a pivotal win.
Ramos was maybe lucky to not concede a penalty himself when, off the ball, he appeared to slide and tread on the foot of Raul Garcia, however Madrid escaped.
As an alternative, the defender’s 10th objective of the season, the most effective tally of his profession, gave Madrid their third 1-Zero win in a row, in addition to a fourth consecutive clear sheet.
“It is a huge win,” mentioned Ramos. “We knew immediately was going to be one of many largest video games that we have now left. It is at all times a troublesome recreation away at Bilbao and we noticed it like that. We’re proud of one other essential three factors that put extra stress on Barcelona.”
Ramos mentioned he’s at all times assured on penalties.
“In these moments of doubt that is after I really feel most comfy. I wished to take the accountability,” he mentioned. “But when I wished particular person recognition I’d play tennis.”
Bilbao’s Iker Munain mentioned Madrid had once more been fortunate with selections.
“We’re not going to win it due to the referees,” mentioned Ramos. “Individuals have to take a look at themselves and be important of their very own performances. Primarily based on the factors, it appears we’re doing properly for the time being.”
Madrid had been with out key gamers, with Raphael Varane nursing a neck harm and Eden Hazard out with ache in his ankle.
Eder Militao changed Varane whereas Marco Asensio made his first begin in 14 months up entrance.
There have been possibilities at each ends within the first half and Bilbao had the most effective of them. Williams twice went shut however was denied by a block by Marcelo after which an outstanding deal with by Militao whereas Raul Garcia’s header was pushed out by Thibaut Courtois.
Karim Benzema would have had a tap-in had Dani Carvajal executed a cushioned move throughout the field however his contact was too excessive.
Asensio’s free-kick had created the prospect and he swung in two extra sensible crosses earlier than half-time, just for Rodrygo and Benzema to overlook with their heads.
The second half was tighter as each groups slowed within the warmth and a extra cautious contest appeared to go well with Madrid, whose second got here within the 73rd minute.
Marcelo was rewarded for a lung-busting run into the field, the place he reached the ball simply forward of Dani Garcia, who twisted his physique into the left-back and bundled him over.
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Referee Jose Gonzalez consulted VAR and awarded the penalty, which Ramos whipped into the underside nook.
Bilbao seemed drained and by no means actually threatened an equaliser however may have been gifted one had Ramos been penalised for the clumsy collision with Raul Garcia. Ramos survived and Madrid held on.
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