Santiago Bernabéu witnessed another Luka Modric masterclass as Real Madrid took down Girona 2-0 in a crucial LaLiga clash. The 39-year-old magician opened the scoring with a goal so beautiful it should be framed and displayed in the Louvre. His long-range volley in the 41st minute left fans and teammates in awe, ensuring Madrid stayed in the tight LaLiga title race.
A Night of Class and Control
Girona came into the game as a potential threat, but Madrid’s experience and quality shone through. Despite a few nervy moments, the hosts maintained control, with a second goal sealing the win and snapping their three-game winless streak.
The match was not just about the goals, but about Luka Modric rolling back the years like he had discovered football’s fountain of youth. Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti couldn’t contain his admiration, comparing Modric’s longevity to football legend Paolo Maldini. “Modric is a gift to football. He should stay as long as he wants,” Ancelotti declared post-match, as fans nodded in agreement.
How the Goals Unfolded
41’ – Luka Modric’s Golazo
A corner clearance looped high, and Modric, with the finesse of a seasoned artist, chested it down before volleying it into the top corner. It was the kind of goal that made fans question if time actually affects the Croatian legend.
72’ – Sealing the Deal
A defensive lapse from Girona allowed Madrid to capitalize, with a well-worked move leading to the second goal. Though it lacked the sheer beauty of Modric’s strike, it effectively ended the contest.
Player Ratings: Real Madrid’s Standout Performances
- Luka Modric (9/10): Man of the match. Dominated midfield, created chances, and scored one of the best goals of the season.
- Thibaut Courtois (6.5/10): Made key saves to keep the clean sheet but wasn’t tested much.
- David Alaba (7/10): Showed his experience in defense, distributing long passes effectively.
- Rodrygo (6.5/10): Worked hard but struggled in the final third.
- Ferland Mendy (6.5/10): Defensively solid but quiet in attack.
- Aurélien Tchouaméni (7/10): Controlled midfield and shifted to center-back when needed.
Ancelotti’s Take on the Game
Ancelotti was pleased with his squad’s response following a tough stretch, but he acknowledged they weren’t at their best: “It often happens that when you control a game well but don’t score early, you risk a draw. The second goal was crucial.”
With Madrid now level on points with Barcelona, the title race remains wide open. The Italian manager is focused on keeping momentum alive as they prepare for Copa del Rey and upcoming league battles.
FAQs: Real Madrid vs Girona
Modric was exceptional, scoring a world-class volley and controlling the midfield with his typical grace. Ancelotti hailed him as a “gift to football.”
The victory keeps Madrid in the title race, now level on points with Barcelona, ensuring they remain in contention for the top spot.
Girona had a few chances but struggled to break down Madrid’s defense. They had a chance to equalize but couldn’t capitalize before Madrid’s second goal sealed their fate.
Madrid faces Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey semifinal before heading to Real Betis for another crucial LaLiga fixture.
Conclusion
Luka Modric’s goal was a reminder of why he remains one of the best in the game, even at 39. Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Girona was a statement victory, keeping them firmly in the LaLiga title chase. Ancelotti’s praise for Modric summed up the night—football is lucky to have him. With crucial games ahead, Madrid fans will be hoping their legendary midfielder continues his brilliance for just a little longer.
For now, Modric’s wonder goal and Madrid’s solid performance will be the talk of football fans worldwide. Who said legends fade?
