Real Madrid secured a convincing 2-0 victory against Girona at the Santiago Bernabéu on February 24, 2025, demonstrating their strong title aspirations as they chase down Barcelona at the top of La Liga. The win brings the team to 54 points, tying them with Barcelona but placing them second due to goal difference.
The match saw Real Madrid adopt an aggressive 4-4-2 formation, with star players Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior leading the attack. The midfield was controlled by Luka Modric, Rodrygo, Aurelien Tchouaméni, and Brahim Díaz, with the defensive line featuring Ferland Mendy, David Alaba, Marco Asensio, and Lucas Vázquez, all guarded by goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Girona, on the other hand, set up with a 3-4-1-2 formation, including notable players like Donny van de Beek and Roma's Paulo Gazzaniga.
From the outset, Real Madrid dominated possession, with early attempts from Vinícius and Rodrygo failing to break the deadlock. Modric began asserting his influence as the game progressed. Finally, the breakthrough came just before halftime. A corner kick led to Modric finding space and unleashing a stunning long-range shot to score, marking one of the most thrilling goals of the week. The home crowd erupted as this spectacular strike found the back of the net.
The second half continued with Madrid controlling the pace. An early chance saw Vázquez's shot saved, but after Girona tried to counter with substitutions, Real's offense did not relent. Vinícius later extended the lead by finishing off a precise assist from Mbappé, securing the points for Los Blancos.
Despite Girona's resolute attempts, they managed only six shots with two on target, unable to find the net against Madrid’s sturdy defense. Girona head coach Miguel Ángel Sánchez attempted to shake things up by introducing new players, but it failed to yield the desired results.
Modric, who was particularly influential, noted the match's importance after the game: "It’s a very important victory, and we must stay fighting. We can’t afford any drop in our levels; we still have room to grow as a team." He highlighted the significance of scoring at the Bernabéu, reflecting the special nature of the occasion, particularly as the team faces strong competition from Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, who also secured wins on the same day.
Real Madrid's manager, Carlo Ancelotti, praised Modric’s performance, stating, "Luka is a gift to football, and we are lucky to have such legends with us." By seamlessly integrating younger and veteran players, Ancelotti aims to maintain Madrid's competitive edge as they juggle domestic commitments with their Champions League aspirations.
The victory came as Real Madrid prepared for their upcoming Copa del Rey semifinal against Real Sociedad, and fans will be eager to see if they can continue this form. Conversely, Girona now faces the challenge of regrouping after their third consecutive defeat, with mounting pressure on their managerial staff to turn things around.
Following the match, Alaba returned from injury, expressing his joy at participating again. "It’s great to be back, and winning makes it all the sweeter. This victory is significant for us," he stated, underlining the team's resilience.
Moving forward, both teams will look to build on this experience, with Real Madrid holding onto their title dreams and Girona desperate to reclaim their early-season form.