Luka Modric rolled back the years with a stunning long-range strike as Real Madrid secured a 2-0 victory over Girona, keeping pace with Barcelona at the top of La Liga.
Vinicius Junior sealed the win late on at the Santiago Bernabéu, ensuring Carlo Ancelotti’s side stayed in control of their title chase.
Despite early pressure from Girona, including a sharp save from Thibaut Courtois to deny Arnau Martinez, Madrid gradually found their rhythm. The visitors, who were last season’s surprise contenders, struggled to replicate their attacking fluency, giving Madrid the opening they needed.
Modric broke the deadlock just before halftime, unleashing a rocket into the top corner after a cleared corner fell perfectly to him. The 39-year-old midfield maestro’s strike sent the Bernabéu into a frenzy.
In the second half, Madrid continued to push forward. Vinicius rattled the crossbar with a curling effort, and Paulo Gazzaniga denied Kylian Mbappé with an impressive save. However, Mbappé eventually turned provider, setting up Vinicius for a composed finish to seal all three points.
With no refereeing drama this time, Madrid’s focus remained on the pitch as they delivered a strong response to their title rivals, keeping their championship hopes alive.
