Modric and Bellingham Shine as Real Madrid Secures Dominant 4-1 Victory Over Villarreal

Real Madrid displayed a commanding performance against a struggling Villarreal side, securing a convincing 4-1 victory that propelled them to the top of La Liga. The dynamic duo of Luka Modric and Jude Bellingham orchestrated memorable plays, with goals from Rodrygo and Brahim Diaz completing the attacking spectacle.

Match Overview:

In a blend of experience and youth, 38-year-old Modric provided a vintage performance, setting up 20-year-old Bellingham for the first goal with a sublime cross. Bellingham’s well-taken header gave Real Madrid an early 1-0 lead. Rodrygo added a second just before halftime, capitalizing on a goalmouth scramble. Although Villarreal managed to pull one back with Jose Morales finding the net early in the second half, Real Madrid controlled the game.

Diaz extended the lead with a brilliant goal after a winding run, and Modric capped off the victory with a composed finish into the bottom corner. Despite Villarreal’s lone goal, it was a comfortable night for Los Blancos, affirming their position at the top of the table.

Player Ratings:

Goalkeeper & Defence:

• Andriy Lunin (5/10): Made a hand on Morales’ goal but had little to do otherwise.

• Lucas Vazquez (6/10): Solid performance on the right, contributing defensively and with dangerous crosses.

• Antonio Rudiger (6/10): Mixed performance, strong in aerial duels but positional lapse on Villarreal’s goal.

• David Alaba (5/10): Started well but was substituted in the first half due to a knee injury.

• Ferland Mendy (6/10): Solid first half, but substituted at halftime with a reported leg injury.

Midfield:

• Toni Kroos (7/10): Controlled the game, distributed the ball well, and linked up play effectively.

• Federico Valverde (7/10): Defensively sound, covered ground, and contributed with diagonal passes.

• Jude Bellingham (8/10): Scored the opening goal with a header, created numerous chances, and showcased skill.

• Luka Modric (9/10): Provided a masterful performance with a brilliant pass for the opener, hit the bar with a shot, and dictated play in the final third.

Attack:

• Brahim Diaz (7/10): Quiet until his wonderful goal, contributing to keeping Joselu out of the lineup.

• Rodrygo (8/10): On the scoresheet again with a tidy finish, displaying potential and consistency.

Subs & Manager:

• Nacho (5/10): Substituted for the injured Alaba, lost track of Morales for the goal, and engaged in disputes.

• Fran Garcia (5/10): Showed effort but lacked quality on the ball.

• Carlo Ancelotti (8/10): Managed the team well, made right decisions with substitutions, and led Real Madrid to the top of the table. Alaba’s injury was a concern, but overall, a controlled and effective performance.