Real Madrid secures a commanding 4-1 victory

In a compelling La Liga showdown, Real Madrid demonstrated their class and firepower at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, overpowering Villarreal with a 4-1 victory. The win, crucial in their pursuit of league leaders Girona, was marked by standout performances from Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo, Brahim Díaz, and Luka Modric, who all contributed to Madrid's impressive goal tally. Villarreal's lone goal came from José Luis Morales, offering a brief moment of competition in an otherwise Madrid-dominated match.

Dominant start leads to Bellingham's opener

Real Madrid's dominance was evident from the start, with their aggressive play and control over the game's tempo. Their efforts paid off in the 25th minute when Modric delivered a pinpoint cross onto the head of Bellingham, who notched his thirteenth goal of the season with a precise header.

Injury concern for Alaba

A worrying moment for Real Madrid occurred around the 30-minute mark when defender David Alaba sustained a knee injury. The severity of Alaba's injury was apparent from his expression, causing concern not only for Madrid but also for the Austrian national team ahead of the upcoming Euro 2024.

Rodrygo doubles Madrid's advantage

Shortly after Alaba's unfortunate exit, Real Madrid doubled their lead. A chaotic moment following a corner saw Lucas Vázquez setting up Rodrygo, who confidently fired the ball home, demonstrating his lethal finishing skills.

Morales strikes back for Villarreal

Early in the second half, Villarreal showed signs of life. José Luis Morales expertly finished a well-orchestrated attack, beating Real's goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, to bring the visitors back into the game.

Díaz and Modric seal the Ddeal for Madrid

However, any hopes of a Villarreal comeback were swiftly quashed. In the 64th minute, Brahim Díaz embarked on a stunning solo run, dribbling past several defenders before coolly slotting the ball into the net. The Madrid onslaught continued, and a Villarreal mistake in defense allowed Rodrygo to seize the ball in the opponent's half, laying it off for Modric who added the final touch to Madrid's emphatic victory.