Real Madrid secured their first league victory after three matches without winning, overcoming Girona 2-0 at the Santiago Bernabéu on February 23. With this win, Madrid placed themselves firmly in the race for the La Liga title, matching Barcelona's points tally, albeit trailing on goal difference.
Currently positioned second with 54 points, Real Madrid found themselves in desperate need of victory after falling behind their title rivals. They stepped onto the pitch aware of the stakes, particularly after their most recent match, which ended in frustration with Osasuna, their comeback effort thwarted by a 1-1 draw. The pressure was palpable, intensified by the performance of not one, but two of their closest competitors clinching wins the day prior.
The match kicked off under the watchful eyes of enthusiastic fans who were optimistic about their home team's chances to display top-level football. Manager Carlo Ancelotti, wrestling with injury concerns and suspensions, opted for tactical tweaks, including the absence of Jude Bellingham due to disciplinary issues and the rotation of several positions to maintain fitness and effectiveness. Notably, it marked the return of David Alaba to the starting lineup, with players like Luka Modric and Brahim Diaz making significant contributions.
From the outset, Real Madrid attempted to seize control of the match, dominating possession and applying pressure on Girona’s defense. Yet, they soon ran afoul of the 10th-placed visitors' structured and compact defense, which was adept at neutralizing threats and counter-attacking when opportunities arose. Girona's backline was well-disciplined, absorbing pressure with poise and waiting for their moment to strike.
Despite their initial struggles, Madrid found their rhythm around the half-hour mark, starting to build momentum with some dangerous forays. Brahim Diaz’s penetrating cross-shot brought the spectators to their feet, as did Modric's ambitious long-range attempt. Just before the break, it was Modric who drew first blood; reacting swiftly to clearances during set pieces, he positioned himself outside the penalty arc, deftly controlling the ball before unleashing a half-volley. The shot sliced through the air, landing perfectly within the right corner of the net.
At 39 years old, Modric became the oldest scorer for Real Madrid, reminding everyone of his incredible skill and prowess, and sending the home crowd roaring with delight.
The second half saw another boost of confidence for Madrid. Initiatives were taken to expand their lead, culminating with Vinicius Jr. executing aggressive runs along the wings and producing high-threat opportunities. Following one such move, Vinicius fired against the woodwork, narrowly missing another chance to extend their lead. Girona remained resilient, drawing on their fresh substitutes, including former Barcelona figure Arthur, but struggled to find any meaningful toxicity against Madrid’s defensive lines.
Yet, at the 83rd minute, Madrid struck again. This time it was Vinicius Jr., following a quick counter initiated by Modric. A fluid exchange with Kylian Mbappe resulted in Vinicius surging forward, pulling away from defenders to find himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper. The finish was calm and precise, sealing the game at 2-0 and leaving Girona with little time to mount any response.
After securing the victory, Ancelotti made defensive substitutions, withdrawing Modric and Vinicius—both heroes of the night—to preserve the clean sheet and focus on solidifying their defensive structure as the minutes wound down.
This win over Girona not only marks Real Madrid's much-needed confidence booster after four matches without victory but also showcases their readiness to contend for the La Liga title amid fierce competition with Barcelona.
With the win behind them, Real Madrid's players and managerial staff can look forward to future matches with renewed spirit, armed with the knowledge they performed when it mattered most. They remain on track to reclaim their title, and the Santiago Bernabéu stands as a fortress once again.