http://www.goal.com/en/news/722/la-liga/2009/01/04/1040914/player-ratings-real-madrid-1-0-villarrealIker Casillas - 8 - Excellent game by Casillas. Had long periods of inactivity, but came up with some spectacular saves when needed.
Sergio Ramos - 7 - A fairly solid game from the right back, who measured his attacks well, going forward enough but not leaving yawning gaps at the back.
Pepe - 8 - Had an immense game at the back, giving Villarreal no joy until a comical missed clearance in the dying minutes.
Fabio Cannavaro - 6 - Did well in the first half, but in the second his marking left a lot to be desired, as Villarreal were treated to a series of free headers.
Gabriel Heinze - 7 - One of Heinze's better games. Solid at the back, and got forward with intent.
Lassana Diarra - 8 - A highly encouraging start by Diarra, who performed exactly the same role that his namesake usually does. Looked full of running and did not lose fitness as the game wore on.
Fernando Gago - 7 - An excellent first half, but gave his opponents far too much space in the second.
Wesley Sneijder - 7 - Orchestrated some great attacks, but his finishing was poor.
Arjen Robben - 9 - By far the best player on the pitch, and was the difference between the sides. Scored one of the goals of the season.
Klaas Jan Huntelaar - 6 - An unspectacular debut. Held the ball up well at times, but missed one great chance to open his account.
Raúl - 7 - Played a decent role as a supporting striker, created a few chances for others, but did not get into many goalscoring positions himself.
Subs
Royston Drenthe - 7 - A very lively performance. Gave Villarreal plenty to worry about when they wanted to attack. If only he could finish...
Rafael Van Der Vaart - 5 - Wasn't on for long, but was largely anonymous as an auxiliary forward.
Christoph Metzelder - N/A.