Luka Modric scores sublime late goal for Real Madrid against Sevilla
Luka Modric showcased his timeless skill with a magnificent late goal against Sevilla, propelling Real Madrid to an eight-point lead at the summit of La Liga.
In the absence of England midfielder Jude Bellingham for a third consecutive game, Real Madrid appeared to be heading towards a goalless draw.
Nonetheless, Croatian midfielder Modric, aged 38, curled in a goal just seven minutes after coming on as a substitute.
Modric has only started in 11 of his 21 La Liga appearances this season. With his contract expiring in June, Real boss Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged that the former Ballon d’Or winner might be disappointed with his limited playing time.
“He shows everyone how hard it is for me to leave him on the bench,” Ancelotti said.
“Not just for the goal he scored, but how he trains. He is an example to the whole squad. It’s very complicated to leave him on the bench.”
Ancelotti said Modric’s contract situation was also “complicated”, adding: “It’s hard to manage. I was once a player and went through it in my last year as a professional player.
“I would understand if Modric was a little bit upset if he is not playing. Everyone thinks he is at the end of his career, but I think he doesn’t agree with that. He looks to be well, fresh. He’s got legs. He doesn’t seem like he is 38.”
Lucas Vazquez saw a goal disallowed for the hosts just before Modric’s decisive strike.
The Real Madrid full-back’s effort was nullified after a lengthy video assistant referee (VAR) review determined that home defender Nacho had committed a foul on forward Youssef En-Nesyri in the build-up.
Federico Valverde also came close for Carlo Ancelotti’s team, striking the post early in the second half. However, the Sevilla defense, expertly led by former Real Madrid star Sergio Ramos, held firm for the most part.
Second-placed Barcelona currently have 57 points, while Girona are a point further behind in third place. Girona will play their postponed match against Rayo Vallecano on Monday at 20:00 GMT, providing them with an opportunity to close the gap on the top two.