Real Madrid – Girona: Match Summary of the League Game at the Bernabéu
Real Madrid Secures Key Victory Against Girona
Real Madrid claimed a crucial 2-0 victory over Girona CF in Matchday 25 of LaLiga, solidifying their co-leadership alongside FC Barcelona. Goals from Luka Modric and Vinicius Jr. ensured Carlo Ancelotti’s side retained their spot at the top of the standings.
Ancelotti Rotates the Squad
Despite the significance of the match, Carlo Ancelotti introduced several changes to the starting lineup. The most notable was the return of David Alaba to the starting eleven after 433 days. Additionally, the Italian manager opted for Lucas Vázquez on the right flank, Luka Modric in midfield, and Brahim Díaz as a replacement for the suspended Jude Bellingham.
Luka Modric Breaks the Deadlock
The match began with clear opportunities for both teams. Girona’s Arnau Martínez had the first attempt, but Thibaut Courtois made a superb save. On the counterattack, Vinicius Jr. showcased his skill, setting up Kylian Mbappé, whose shot was too central to trouble the goalkeeper.
Real Madrid came out with high intensity. Aurélien Tchouaméni pushed forward from his pivot role to aid in pressing, while Vinicius Jr. and Mbappé remained highly active. Girona, however, managed to keep the score level in the early minutes.
Despite their defensive resilience, Girona struggled to control possession in a tense Santiago Bernabéu. At the 12-minute mark, Madrid fans voiced their frustration, chanting “Corruption in the Federation,” along with criticisms directed at Javier Tebas and FC Barcelona.
At the half-hour mark, Real Madrid had a golden opportunity to take the lead. Vinicius Jr. found himself in a two-on-one situation but failed to pass to Mbappé in time, allowing Krejci to intercept. The play originated from an excellent intervention by Courtois.
However, Girona’s resistance only lasted until the 41st minute. Luka Modric unleashed a powerful strike from distance, putting the hosts ahead just before halftime. Despite their dominance, Real Madrid’s attackers lacked efficiency in front of goal in the first half.
Vinicius Jr. Ends Goal Drought in LaLiga
Míchel’s halftime talk aimed to rally his team, and Girona started the second half with more focus and offensive presence. However, Real Madrid remained determined to extend their lead. Lucas Vázquez came close with a shot that narrowly missed the post of Paulo Gazzaniga’s goal.
Real Madrid continued to dictate play, with their attackers relentlessly pushing forward. In the 58th minute, Vinicius Jr. struck the crossbar with a powerful shot from outside the box. Girona was on the ropes, and the second goal seemed imminent.
As the game progressed, Míchel made substitutions to shift the momentum, but Real Madrid remained in control. In the 83rd minute, Vinicius Jr. sealed the victory, breaking his three-month goal drought in LaLiga. The Brazilian finished off a move involving Luka Modric and Kylian Mbappé, flicking the ball into the net with his toe.
Ultimately, Real Madrid secured a well-deserved 2-0 win over Girona CF at the Santiago Bernabéu, thanks to a stunning goal from Luka Modric in the first half and a late strike from Vinicius Jr. The team remains joint leaders with FC Barcelona and now turns its attention to Wednesday’s Copa del Rey semifinal first-leg clash against Real Sociedad at the Reale Arena.
