Huijsen strengthens Spain case as Real Madrid’s defence shines in defeat

Dean Huijsen was the outstanding performer in a difficult night for Real Madrid at La Cartuja, producing a commanding defensive display despite the club suffering their first defeat of the season.

While Real Madrid repeatedly struggled to break through Real Betis’ defensive wall and were frustrated by goalkeeper Valles, Huijsen provided rare encouragement in the number four shirt. The centre-back, who arrived from Malaga, protected his side’s penalty area with authority and showed the resilience that stood out in an otherwise disappointing performance.

According to Spanish newspaper Marca, Huijsen’s mentality has changed significantly since the start of the current campaign. Despite his age, the defender has displayed greater competitive intensity and a more aggressive edge, qualities that may be linked to a promise he made to himself after inheriting the number four shirt from David Alaba.

The shirt carries particular significance for Huijsen because it is associated with two of his idols, Sergio Ramos and Fernando Hierro. He previously said: “What I know for certain is that I will give everything I have every day, whether that is in training or in matches.”

At La Cartuja, he fulfilled that pledge even though Real Madrid left the stadium with a disappointing result.

Huijsen’s main defensive assignment was to contain Juan “Cucho” Hernandez, and he completed the task with considerable success. The Colombian striker was closely monitored and was repeatedly prevented from receiving the ball inside the penalty area.

Real Betis attempted to find their leading forward in the spaces between the lines, but Huijsen cut out passes with well-timed interventions and used his strength to deal with him in open areas. He was also involved in a tense confrontation with Antony, yet remained composed against one of the Andalusian side’s most influential players.

His contribution went beyond stopping opponents. Alongside Arda Guler, Huijsen was regarded as one of Real Madrid’s best players because of his courage in possession, calmness when receiving the ball and ability to use it intelligently under pressure.

He also came close to becoming an unexpected match-winner. In the 11th minute, his forward movement during a corner allowed him to take a dangerous effort from close range, forcing a save from Valles. He later sent a header against the crossbar.

After the interval, Huijsen won the ball in an advanced position and created an opportunity that almost became an assist for Kylian Mbappe. Had any of those moments been converted, they might have changed the course of the match.

Ibrahima Konate produced a convincing performance alongside him, although he did not reach the same level. The France defender carried out his defensive responsibilities but was less precise than usual both in possession and when out of it.

The pair represent a developing centre-back partnership, but their performances showed contrasting levels of readiness and rhythm. Huijsen looked settled and continued his clear progress, while Konate appears to require more matches before reaching his best level in the white shirt.

Huijsen has consequently emerged as Real Madrid’s biggest defensive positive from a complicated evening. His display offered renewed confidence in a back line that has been viewed as the club’s Achilles heel in recent seasons.

The defender is continuing to produce performances worthy of the shirt number worn by his heroes and is establishing himself as a potential defensive leader. His form also serves as a personal statement to Spain manager Luis de la Fuente, who left him out of the squad for the World Cup won by Spain.

Every match now represents another opportunity for Huijsen to prove his value and work his way back into De la Fuente’s plans. Despite the bitterness of Real Madrid’s setback at La Cartuja, he showed that he can remain firm and composed regardless of the circumstances around him.