One of the most underrated aspects of Real Madrid’s game so far this season has been the defensive side.

In the 20 games Real Madrid has played this season, they have managed to keep a cleansheet in 10 of them – conceding just 14 goals in the process, 9 in La Liga and 5 in UEFA Champions League. A total of 0,7 goals conceded per match.

Just when the season started, Real Madrid lost the two most important defensive players – with Thibaut Courtois and Eder Militao that suffered ACL injuries, that will keep them out respectively almost all season.

After Courtois’ injury, Real Madrid signed Kepa Arrizabalaga on loan, with the Spanish GK that has switched with Lunin in some games this season.

As Militao’s replacement, Rudiger has cemented his place in the starting line-up showing unbelievable performances, with Alaba continuing to be his partner, meanwhile Carvajal continues as the RB in the best form of the last years, and lately Ferland Mendy has returned to his best version to be Real Madrid’s starting LB.

Real Madrid have allowed 7,8 shots per game this season, a total of 156. Out of the 156, 64 shots have been on target which translates to 3,2 shots per games allowed on target.

So far this season, Real Madrid have allowed 20,31 xG against them – overperforming it by 6 with only 14 goals conceded.

A massive help in Real Madrid’s defensive progress this season has also been the midfield four that completely changes the shape of the team while defending, having more numbers in defense and this way creating great compactness.

In only one occasion this season Real Madrid have conceded more than two goals, only twice the team has conceded 2 goals in a single game while in seven other matches they have conceded once.

Lunin and Kepa have made a total of 64 saves combined this season – showing their great contribution while people expected worse after Courtois’ injury.

Real Madrid’s start to the season has been perfect in all aspects, but the defensive side of things has absolutely been perfect, unexpected with all the injuries – but great.

Every single defensive player deserves praise for the season they are having so far, but also Carlo Ancelotti – who so far, has executed the new formation in the best possible way.

Hoping everything continues this way, the Real Madrid of this season looks very, very promising – in all sides of the game.