FOOTBALL – Following Atletico Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona on Sunday, the title race in La Liga intensified. Real Madrid, in third place, hosted Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabéu on Monday night.
With a chance to leapfrog Barcelona and close the gap to Atletico, Los Blancos knew a win was crucial. Both Madrid sides also hold a game in hand, adding further weight to the encounter.
Early dominance from Real Madrid
The match began evenly, with both sides fighting for control. However, the deadlock broke in the 10th minute when Rodrygo’s run down the left flank set up Kylian Mbappé. Unmarked on the edge of the box, Mbappé expertly headed the ball into the top corner, netting his 10th goal of the La Liga season.
Just seven minutes later, Mbappé came close to doubling his tally, but his shot bounced over the bar. Real Madrid’s second goal came in the 20th minute. A short corner from Camavinga found Valverde, who was left unmarked outside the area. Valverde’s powerful strike found the top right corner, making it 2-0.
Sevilla struggled as Madrid extended the lead
Real Madrid’s confidence soared, and they piled pressure on Sevilla. In the 34th minute, Vázquez’s burst down the right wing ended with a perfect pullback to Rodrygo, who calmly slotted the ball past Fernández. With a 3-0 lead, it seemed the game was out of reach for the visitors.
However, Sevilla responded almost immediately. One minute later, Romero connected with a curling cross from Sánchez to head the ball past Courtois. The goal reignited Sevilla’s hopes as the first half ended 3-1, despite a near-miss for a second goal in stoppage time.
Sevilla showed spirit but Madrid sealed victory
Sevilla began the second half with renewed energy, creating an early chance in the 47th minute. Romero’s strike was on target but lacked the power to beat Courtois. Despite their improved start, Real Madrid struck again. In the 49th minute, Mbappé set up Díaz inside the box, and Díaz coolly side-footed the ball into the net. The scoreline extended to 4-1, leaving Sevilla with an uphill battle.
An emotional farewell for Jesús Navas
A key moment in the match came when Jesús Navas took to the pitch in what was an emotional farewell. The Sevilla captain, a product of the club’s youth system, has spent over two decades with the team, amassing a record 705 appearances. Known for his speed, pinpoint crossing, and tireless work ethic, Navas has become a legend at Sevilla.
The 38-year-old received a standing ovation from both sets of fans as he entered the field with 30 minutes remaining. His influence was immediate, almost assisting Romero with a cross that struck the post. Although Sevilla could not turn the tide, Navas’s presence was a poignant reminder of his contributions to the club.
After the match, tributes poured in for Navas, who helped Sevilla win multiple Europa League titles and earned over 40 caps for Spain, including a World Cup win in 2010. His legacy as one of Sevilla’s all-time greats is secure.
Title race intensified before winter break
The match ended 4-2, with Real Madrid moving into second place on 41 points, just one point behind Atletico. Sevilla’s spirited performance was not enough to derail Los Blancos, who go into the winter break firmly in the hunt for the La Liga title.
As the second half of the season approaches, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid’s game in hand could prove pivotal in a title race that is far from decided. Meanwhile, Sevilla bid farewell to one of their greatest players, marking the end of an era for the Andalucian side.