Varane shines again at last. Real Madrid is not going through its best moment and neither is he, but, with the help of the French national team, he has once again shown that he has a lot to contribute. He faced up to Portugal's fearsome attack and his work was outstanding.
With Kimpembe at his side, he was responsible for intercepting most of the balls that threatened his goal. This was no easy task: Joao Felix, a talented youngster from Atletico Madrid, and Cristiano Ronaldo, a star of Juventus, were among those charged with trying to outdo him.
But he hung on. Kanté also enjoyed a lot of attention, although he focused a little more on the midfield, knowing that Raphäel had his back. This may be the prelude to an effective Madrid upswing in form.
However, it will take time to see if this good work in the international arena is transferred to the Spanish league. The French have another Nations Leagues match in front of them, this one against Sweden on 17 November. It is likely that Varane will be important again.