Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez is now riding a wave of momentum after scoring his first two goals in a Real Madrid uniform on Saturday. Cristiano Ronaldo had a hat trick and Gareth Bale also had two goals as Real destroyed Deportivo La Coruna 8-2.
Chicharito looked good in the match, scoring two goals just four minutes apart from each other. In fact, Chicharito looked so good off the bench on Saturday, that he may have earned himself a spot in the starting XI for Real Madrid’s match against Elche on Tuesday.
On Monday, manager, Carlo Ancelotti hinted that Chicharito may be inserted into the Real Madrid lineup for the first time in place of Karim Benzema.
“Something, we will change something.” Said Ancelotti when asked if Chicharito would start during Monday’s press conference.
“Chicharito has played in almost all the matches so far. For him, it was important that he score and it’s clear that he has more confidence now. Chicharito is doing well, he feels comfortable on the squad and this club and all of us feel comfortable with him.”
Indeed it would be smart of Ancelotti to ride Chicharito’s current wave of confidence, especially if he can sell it to Benzema that it is a temporary thing and an opportunity for the French striker to get some rest over the course of a long season. Chicharito is an emotional player who goes on more streaks and slumps than Ronaldo goes through underwear ads. If Real Madrid can ride Chicharito for a couple games, giving home more minutes, it’s highly possible the Mexican striker could score two to three more goals in the coming week.
The trick to maneuvering such a maze of talent at Madrid, is making sure all egos are put aside and the players are okay with being on the bench for a game or two. When asked how Benzema would feel about not starting on Tuesday, Ancelotti believed it would be a non-issue.
“I did it with Arbeloa on Wednesday and he should understand that it is a rotation and not a punishment,” said Ancelotti. “If it is a punishment, I will say it. If Karim doesn’t play, he will understand why. Benzema played well but I wanted to put in a player who would give us some equilibrium and leave the two fastest players against them. If he doesn’t play he will understand it is a rotation.
“I am not looking to see whether a forward scores or doesn’t score. I am looking to see whether he plays efficient offense. The work Benzema did vs. Depor was very good. I don’t care if he doesn’t score.” Said the Real Madrid boss.
Stay tuned on Tuesday to see if Chicharito gets his first start or not as Real Madrid takes on Elche at 2:00PM EST. If Chicharito does get the nod, look for the Mexican soccer star to attack early as Elche’s vulnerable at the back four.
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