Real Madrid defeats Sevilla 4-2 at Bernabeu Stadium in La Liga, with Mbappe, Valverde, Rodrygo, and Diaz propelling Real to second place.
On December 22, 2024, Real Madrid secured a 4-2 victory over Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, propelling them to second place in La Liga, just one point behind leaders Atlético Madrid.
Match Overview
Real Madrid’s attacking quartet—Kylian Mbappé, Federico Valverde, Rodrygo, and Brahim Díaz—each found the net, showcasing the team’s offensive prowess. Sevilla responded with goals from Isaac Romero and Dodi Lukebakio, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the hosts’ dominance.
First Half
- Kylian Mbappé’s Opener: Mbappé initiated the scoring with a remarkable long-range effort, demonstrating his exceptional talent and justifying his high-profile transfer to Real Madrid.
- Federico Valverde’s Strike: Valverde extended the lead with a powerful shot from outside the box, reflecting his growing influence in midfield.
- Rodrygo’s Contribution: Rodrygo added a third goal, capping off a well-executed team move that left Sevilla’s defense scrambling.
- Sevilla’s Response: Isaac Romero managed to pull one back for Sevilla before halftime, offering a glimmer of hope for the visitors.
Second Half
- Brahim Díaz’s Goal: Early in the second half, Mbappé provided an assist for Brahim Díaz, who scored to make it 4-1, effectively sealing the match for Real Madrid.
- Sevilla’s Late Effort: Dodi Lukebakio scored a consolation goal for Sevilla, but the deficit remained too large to overcome.
Key Performers
- Kylian Mbappé: Mbappé’s goal and assist were pivotal in Real Madrid’s victory. His performance continues to draw comparisons with club legends, as he became the third-fastest player to reach ten La Liga goals for Real Madrid, following Jude Bellingham and Cristiano Ronaldo.
- Federico Valverde: Valverde’s midfield dominance and goal-scoring ability were on full display, contributing significantly to both defense and attack.
- Rodrygo and Brahim Díaz: Both players showcased their attacking flair, each adding a goal and consistently pressuring Sevilla’s defense.
Managerial Insights
Real Madrid’s manager, Carlo Ancelotti, praised the team’s performance, highlighting Mbappé’s self-criticism and dedication as key factors in his recent rise. Ancelotti emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum as the team heads into the winter break.
Sevilla’s Farewell to Jesús Navas
The match was also notable for Sevilla’s tribute to Jesús Navas, who made his final appearance before retirement. Navas received a standing ovation from the Bernabéu crowd, underscoring his significant impact on Spanish football.
Implications for La Liga Standings
This victory elevated Real Madrid to second place in La Liga with 40 points, narrowing the gap to leaders Atlético Madrid to just one point. Sevilla, meanwhile, remains in 12th place with 22 points, facing challenges as they look to improve their standing in the league.
