Real Madrid celebrated the end of 2024 with a convincing 4-2 victory against Sevilla FC at the Santiago Bernabéu, propelled by the impressive performances of Kylian Mbappé, Federico Valverde, and Rodrygo. This win allowed Los Merengues to reclaim second place in La Liga, just one point shy of leaders Atlético Madrid.
The match kicked off with high intensity, and it wasn’t long before Madrid's star, Mbappé, showcased his skills. Just ten minutes in, the French international received the ball from Rodrygo and unleashed a stunning shot from outside the box, firing it past Sevilla's goalkeeper Alvaro Fernandez to open the scoring. "Quelle frappe du Français ! Il offre à son équipe un départ idéal," exclaimed commentators, echoing the excitement of the match's beginning.
Valverde doubled the lead just ten minutes later with another powerful strike from 25 meters out after working with Eduardo Camavinga on a corner. The Uruguayan's goal left Fernandez with no chance, as the ball swerved beautifully to find the back of the net. Commentators were quick to label it as "un missile" as the crowd roared with approval.
Rodrygo capped off the first half by extending the lead to 3-0 with a well-placed shot after receiving a precise cross from Lucas Vazquez. At this point, the game seemed firmly in Madrid's control. But the Seville side, desiring to turn the tide, pulled one back just minutes later. Isaac Romero scored with a powerful header, capitalizing on some defensive laxity from Real, bringing the score to 3-1 shortly before half-time.
Despite Sevilla's goal, Carlo Ancelotti's men looked undeterred, managing the game effectively as they returned for the second half. The atmosphere remained electric, and just eight minutes after play resumed, Mbappé was on the move again. He skillfully set up Brahim Diaz, who finished with precision to restore Madrid's three-goal lead at 4-1, leaving fans stunned with admiration for the winger's vision and delivery.
Mbappé's effort warranted attention as his adaptation to the team seemed complete, with Ancelotti having remarked prior to the match, "Sa période d'adaptation est terminée; il montre déjà une bonne version de lui-même." The Frenchman reaffirmed these words, demonstrating his increasing confidence and importance to the team.
Sevilla did manage to find the net again late in the match, with Dodi Lukebakio scoring to finalize the score at 4-2. This late consolation, though, did little to dampen the spirits of the Madrid crowd celebrating the New Year. The visitors struggled overall to break through Madrid's increasingly stout defense, which had proven to be one of the best, conceding only 16 goals throughout the season.
The match also signaled the end of Jesus Navas's illustrious career. The Beloved veteran received rousing applause from both sets of fans as he took the pitch for one last time, cementing his legacy after 18 seasons, including more than 700 matches with Sevilla FC. Navas's contributions to the game were acknowledged as players and fans alike celebrated his admirable commitment and achievements with emotional farewells.
With this emphatic victory, Real Madrid concluded 2024 on a high note, positioning themselves within touching distance of Atlético Madrid as the title race heats up. Looking forward, fans are eager to see if the momentum will carry through the next series of matches in the new year.
Given the revival of his attack—particularly the chemistry between Mbappé and Rodrygo—Madrid looks poised to challenge fiercely as La Liga heads to its climax. The blend of youth and experience within Ancelotti's squad continues to promise excitement for supporters.
Spain's top flight will resume with fixtures set for January 3, 2025, where Real Madrid will face Valencia, aiming to continue their winning ways.
