Real Madrid defender Nacho became the unlikely hero as he scored the winning goal in a 1-0 victory over Real Valladolid to move three points clear in La Liga standings, capitalising on Barcelona 2-0 defeat to Valencia.
That was also Nacho first goal in over two years at Real Madrid.
He only played his fourth league start of the season, only because Dani Carvajal was suspended but he proved his quality with a header goal in 78 minutes.
Manager Zinedine Zidane revealed after the game that his instructions to Nacho proved a decisive moment in the match.
🙌😀 THREE points and TOP of the league! #HALAMADRID pic.twitter.com/HyyWtekuTg
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) January 26, 2020
“Just before he scored I told him to attack the near post. He’s a defender who doesn’t score many goals so I’m delighted for him.
“It was a very difficult match against a team who had only lost one game at home and who play very well. It was vital that we won but being top of the table doesn’t change anything for us, we just have to keep doing what we’re doing well.”
Real Madrid will play Real Zaragoza in Copa del Ray Round of 16, before welcoming local rivals Atletico Madrid at Santiago Bernabeu.