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Sergio Ramos scored his 22nd consecutive penalty on Sunday as Real Madrid held on for an additional 1-0 win over Athletic Bilbao to inch nearer to profitable La Liga. Ramos’ fifth aim in seven video games for the reason that restart provides Madrid a seven-point lead over Barcelona, who play in a while Sunday at in-form Villarreal. Anything however a victory for Barca would in all probability depart them an excessive amount of to do with 4 video games remaining, particularly as Madrid personal the superior document head-to-head.
This was Madrid’s hardest fixture left they usually might need been content material even with a degree in opposition to a strong, well-organised Bilbao facet.
But after edging out Getafe on Thursday, by way 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.
Instead, the defender’s 10th aim of the season, the most effective tally of his profession, gave Madrid their third 1-0 win in a row, in addition to a fourth consecutive clear sheet.
“It’s a massive win,” mentioned Ramos. “We knew today was going to be one of the biggest games that we have left. It’s always a difficult game away at Bilbao and we saw it like that. We’re happy with another crucial three points that put more pressure on Barcelona.”
Ramos mentioned he’s at all times assured on penalties.
“In those moments of doubt that’s when I feel most comfortable. I wanted to take the responsibility,” he mentioned. “But if I wanted individual recognition I would play tennis.”
Bilbao’s Iker Munain mentioned Madrid had once more been fortunate with choices.
“We’re not going to win it thanks to the referees,” mentioned Ramos. “People have to look at themselves and be critical of their own performances. Based on the points, it seems we’re doing well at the moment.”
Madrid have been with out key gamers, with Raphael Varane nursing a neck damage 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 probabilities 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 excellent 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 cross throughout the field however his contact was too excessive.
Asensio’s free-kick had created the possibility 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 swimsuit 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 regarded 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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