· 2 min readIn this Ferencvaros vs Real Madrid match, I analyse the key tactical moments, individual performances and turning points of the game.
There are friendlies that come and go, and there are others that leave you with something to think about. This Ferencvaros 1-2 Real Madrid was more of the latter, but not exactly for the best reasons for the Spanish side. Almost mid-August, rhythm still being built, ideas being tested, but with a minimum level of expectation already present. And even so, Real Madrid never fully looked like they were in control of the game as expected.
The start had more noise than football. Literally. The Ferencvaros stands were pushing their team forward and that was noticeable in a fearless opening. Early on, there was a clear moment: the ball hit Dumfries’ hand inside the area. An obvious penalty that went unawarded, typical of a friendly without much refereeing rigour. A warning for a Real side that looked somewhat switched off, predictable, heavily reliant on the right side and lacking creativity in the final third. Endrick, for example, struggled between the centre-backs, making poor decisions when he had other options.
The game dragged on without many clear chances, with Real having possession but no real depth. There was a lack of intensity, a lack of cutting edge. Then, in the 41st minute, the deadlock was broken from a set-piece. A worked corner, the ball circulated until it reached Ciria, who delivered a tense, quality cross into the box. Mário Rivas was left completely unmarked, far too unmarked, and headed powerfully into the net. 0-1. A goal that came more from Ferencvaros’ defensive disorganisation than from a great collective move, but it did the essential job: putting Real ahead.
The second half brought changes and new names, but also a different dynamic. In the 49th minute came Real’s best collective moment of the game. Quick passing, Valverde arriving well inside the area and setting up Carlos Espí, who only had to tap it in. 0-2. Simple, effective, and that one actually looked like Real Madrid. It seemed the game was finally going to settle into comfortable control.
But no. In the 57th minute, Ferencvaros responded. A ball in behind, Kodro attacked the space with ease, beat Rüdiger for pace and finished calmly. 1-2. A goal that exposed defensive fragility and a lack of concentration, especially in a context where that cannot happen, even in friendlies. Mourinho did not like it, and it showed.
From there, the game became more even. And that says a lot. Real lost control, lost intensity and never managed to impose themselves clearly again. Vini Jr, on his return, was quiet. Güler was one of the few players to provide control and a consistent presence. Still, it was not enough from a team that should be operating at another level, even in pre-season.
And in the end, there was a strange feeling: Real Madrid won, but did not convince. Ferencvaros, despite losing, came out of the game looking far more alive than many would have expected.
Post-match
A fair result, but a performance that raises questions. Real Madrid showed moments, particularly in the second goal, but overall they were short of intensity, lacked sharpness and were too permissive defensively. There is talent, there are options, but consistency is still missing.