Real Madrid came within a point of the league leaders, Atlético Madrid, after a convincing 4-2 home win over Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabéu. The result guarantees that no more “Los Blancos” are defeated by an opponent at the Bernabeu in LaLiga since April 2023, apart from the one loss to Barcelona and, in doing so, ensures their determination to retain the title for a title race which is becoming ever more competitive.
Match Summary
First Half: Goals Galore
Kylian Mbappé pulled the goal back in style, rifled past the disbelieving Sevilla keeper with a 20-yard thunderbolt.
– Moments later, Federico Valverde doubled the lead with an even more audacious effort, a stunning strike from 30 yards that left the crowd in awe.
By a composed finish worked by Lucas Vázquez, Rodrygo Goes put the score at 3-0 at the half, seemingly closing the game.
– Sevilla found a glimmer of hope when Isaac Romero headed in a well-delivered cross to reduce the deficit to 3-1 just before the interval.
—
Second Half: Real Madrid’s Control
All Sevilla’s hopes for a second-half revival were snuffed out at the very beginning of the second half, when Brahim Díaz received a one-touch finish from a beautiful Mbappé pass.
However, the tempo of Real Madrid’s game slowed as Carlo Ancelotti introduced substitutes, like Arda Güler and Luka Modrić, in the last 20 minutes.
Sevillaâs late consolation was, to no avail, scored by Dodi Lukebakio, who stinging and smartly virtually wrapped up all 4-goals, and Sevilla found it difficult to challenge Madridâs control both before and after the goal.
Key Performances
– Kylian Mbappé: A standout performance, scoring a sublime opener and providing an assist for Brahim Díaz’s goal.
– Federico Valverde: The long range effort (go of the season contender) was a result of a commanding midfield performance.
– Brahim Díaz: He demonstrated himself through a clinical target intelligent connector play.model.
– Dodi Lukebakio (Sevilla): Provided a late shot for the guests, but it was not enough, not in time.
Manager’s Comments
Carlo Ancelotti (Real Madrid):
“We played with great intensity in the first half and scored some wonderful goals. The second half was all about the mastery of the game, and the players managed that successfully. The outstanding performance of Mbappé was spectacular—he is showing his worth even in important moments.
José Luis Mendilibar (Sevilla):
“We showed spirit, but mistakes against a team like Madrid are costly. Now we’re concentrating on the improvement of consistency in order to get the better ranking of the table.
What’s Next
– Real Madrid: Current champions focus their attention on the festive encounters, hoping to stay in contact with Atlético Madrid at the summit of the table.
– Sevilla: The Andalusian side will look to bounce back as they attempt to climb out of mid-table obscurity.
Final Thoughts
Real Madrid’s attacking quality, coupled with a moment of magic from Mbappé, served to keep up the intensity on Atlético Madrid. Sevilla’s resolve brought them two to go’s but that could not cover the chasm in quality that day. In view of the boost provided to the title fight, the team’s performance at the Bernabéu will probably play a critical role.
