Real Madrid may have found the heir to Iker Casillas' throne where they never expected it, as Keylor Navas has become crucial to the team's great form this season. Today, the Latin American goalkeeper kept a clean sheet for most of the game, making incredible saves to help Real Madrid reach the top of La Liga for the first time this season.
While Los Blancos went ahead with goals by Cristiano Ronaldo and Danilo, the Costa Rican goalie deflected every single shot that came near his hands. When the first half was almost over, Navas cleared a well-placed header that threatened to go into his net, but he flew to stop it and even earned himself a round of applause from the home crowd.
Awesome save by Navas! https://t.co/JkrcJnI21l
— Patricia Chua (@ChuaPatricia) October 24, 2015
But the Costa Rican didn't stop there. As Celta's pressure increased, Navas' form eclipsed everyone on the pitch, denying Iago Aspas, Nolito & co. the goal that could give the hosts a chance to bounce back.
Iago Aspas(9), denied by Navas.
Then, Orellana tried, but Navas was still there.
The only one who could get past Navas was Nolito, who drilled his shot into the top right-hand corner.
Espectácular partido de #Nolito y @rccelta_oficial que mereció mucho más. Lo evitó @NavasKeylor .Excepto este golazo pic.twitter.com/KiFced6y1k
— Evolution Manager (@evolutionmg) October 24, 2015
Of course, fans let their creativity flow to show their respect for Navas. Here are some of the best comments about the Costa Rican.
Top: "Game's scoreline with Keylor Navas". Bottom: "Game's scoreline without Keylor Navas"
El salvavidas Keylor Navas pic.twitter.com/yV0IJfpoEr
— Motivaciones Fútbol (@M0tivacionesF) October 24, 2015
Even Buzz Lightyear had a say about Navas' performance.
How the world views @NavasKeylor right now! pic.twitter.com/lMi72bmTmC
— SocialRMadrid (@SocialRMadrid) October 24, 2015
Keylor Navas at first half! pic.twitter.com/XXUs8rAeux
— Football Stuff (@FootbalIStuff) October 24, 2015
Keylor Navas making saves is now like Cristiano scoring goals. Get used to it.
— Kárim Al Balushi (@KarimB92) October 24, 2015
No guys that's not Superman, that's Keylor Navas. Pura Vida. pic.twitter.com/bNvkDWmYlv
— Rey (@ReyLaMadrid) October 24, 2015