Real Madrid World Cup Spotlight: Standing ovation for Modric, Courtois has a stinker | OneFootball

Sunday was the penultimate day of the second round of group stage fixtures in Qatar and it brought with it some of the most shocking results of the tournament.

The first game saw Japan take on Costa Rica. The Asians were the clear favourites heading into the game but came out second-best after conceding a late goal.

The most unexpected result of the day came when Morocco outclassed Belgium and put two goals past them to take all three points. The result could spell the end of the tournament for Roberto Martinez’s side.

Croatia then pummelled Canada by scoring four goals and stamped their authority in the World Cup as the former runners-up.

The highlight of the day came in the form of Spain vs Germany, a game that was arguably the biggest clash in the group stages. The two teams shared the spoils in a closely-battled encounter, however, as the game ended 1-1.

Madrid Universal brings you an overview of the performances of Real Madrid players on the day.

Luka Modric (Croatia vs Canada)

The 37-year-old started his nation’s second World Cup game and was once again the one casting the spells in the middle of the park. Alongside Mateo Kovacic and Ivan Perisic, he took charge of creating chances on the day and wreaked havoc.

In 86 minutes on the field, Modric had 68 touches and 41 accurate passes with a completion rate of over 85%. Further, he recorded two key passes and created two big chances.

Despite being the oldest player on the field, he actively contributed to defence too with two interceptions, three tackles and four duels won, leaving the pitch with a standing ovation from fans.

Eden Hazard (Belgium vs Morocco)

Watching Eden Hazard’s evident regression from his status as an elite player is not easy. His intention to make a difference is visible, but his boots lack the same quality they used to possess.

The Belgian played until the hour mark against Morocco but barely contributed in the final third. He completed just 26 passes, made one key pass and had just one shot on target. His xG for the entire game was a mere 0.05, and that reflects the minimal level of threat he posed.

Thibaut Courtois (Belgium vs Morocco)

Courtois had an off night for Belgium against Morocco (Photo by JACK GUEZ/AFP via Getty Images)

On Sunday, the world witnessed what was perhaps Thibaut Courtois’ career-worst performance. The Belgian was the worst player on the field and is one of the biggest reasons why his side lost the plot in the second half.

He conceded cheaply in the first half via a well-taken freekick but was lucky that the goal was disallowed for offside.

Yet, Belgium conceded a carbon copy of the disallowed goal again in the 73rd minute, only that the Morocco players timed their run well the second time. Courtois let the ball slip past his hand at the near post, a mistake unacceptable at his level.

He made himself small for the second goal too and put up a helpless figure. Clearly, his confidence has taken a blow and it will be up to Roberto Martinez to fix the same. Nevertheless, the goalkeeper made two saves including one from inside the box.

Marco Asensio (Spain vs Germany)

After an explosive start to his World Cup campaign against Costa Rica, Marco Asensio faced a tough test against Germany on Sunday and he struggled to influence the game with the same effect.

He failed to take a shot on target and had just one key pass in his 66 minutes on the field. In terms of the buildup play too, Asensio was barely involved and will hope to bounce back stronger against Japan.

Dani Carvajal (Spain vs Germany)

Dani Carvajal received his first start in Qatar on Sunday and made a mixed impression.

On one side, the veteran did not make any glaring errors and was relatively safe in possession. Yet, it seemed like the Germans found it easier to foray into Spanish territory through his flank and easily exploited the spaces behind him.

He had just three defensive actions against Germany and was dribbled past twice. Nevertheless, the silver lining of his performance was that he completed 100% of the long balls he attempted.

Antonio Rudiger (Spain vs Germany)

The Real Madrid defender seemed to be the early hero on the night for Germany as he sent a powerful header past Unai Simon in the first half. However, his goal was instantly ruled out for offside.

Defensively, the game was far from his best. He had six defensive actions on a night when his partner registered 16. Moreover, he completed less than 85% of his attempted passes.