Real Madrid kept pace in the La Liga title race after claiming a commanding 2-0 victory over Girona at the Santiago Bernabéu on February 23, 2025. The win, achieved during the 25th round of the season, means the Galácticos have now matched Barcelona's 54 points, though they remain second due to goal difference.
From the outset, Real Madrid showcased their determination to regain the top spot, which they lost following Barcelona and Atletico Madrid's victories the previous day. They dominated possession and created numerous chances throughout the match. Despite Girona's resilient defense and some close calls, the onslaught from Carlo Ancelotti's side proved too much.
The opening half saw Real Madrid struggling to break through, yet they found the breakthrough just before halftime. Luka Modric, the veteran midfielder, scored with a stunning volley from outside the box, eliciting roars from the home crowd. This was a particularly satisfying moment for Modric, as it was his first goal at the Bernabéu since February 25, 2024, against Sevilla. "After such a long wait, this goal means the world to me," Modric said post-match, reflecting the intensity of the moment.
After the break, Real Madrid maintained their dominance, but they were met with impressive goalkeeping from Girona's Paulo Gazzaniga as well as solid defending. The visitors, who had recently struggled with form, showing resilience and keeping the scoreline close through the early part of the second half.
Despite several missed opportunities, Real Madrid secured the game with another goal late on. The dynamic duo of Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Jr. combined to seal the victory, with Vinicius finding the net for the first time since November. "It felt great to finally score again. We have been working hard, and this win is important," Vinicius expressed afterward.
The match statistics reflected Real Madrid’s superiority: 70% possession and 15 shots, demonstrating the relentless pressure they applied throughout the game. Girona, on the other hand, found it difficult to create substantial chances, managing only five shots and struggling to contain Real Madrid’s offensive play.
Defensively, Real Madrid were organized, with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois making several key saves to negate any threats from Girona. Míchel's team, managing to defend well for much of the match, could do little to prevent the inevitable, succumbing to yet another defeat which leaves them 12th in the league standings.
Looking forward, Ancelotti underlined the importance of building on this momentum. "We showed great character today. This is just the beginning; we have more games coming up fast, and we need to keep this intensity," he stated as his team prepares for upcoming challenges, including the Copa del Rey semifinal against Real Sociedad.
With the La Liga title race heating up, Real Madrid's next fixtures will be pivotal. They aim to keep up the pressure on Barcelona and Atlético Madrid, who currently lead the points table. Meanwhile, Girona will look to rebound from this loss when they host Celta Vigo next week.
Overall, Real Madrid's victory against Girona not only showcases their current form but also emphasizes the competitive nature of La Liga this season. With their eyes set on reclaiming the top spot, the squad is determined to maintain their strong run.