Luka Modric comes up clutch to keep Real Madrid eight points above Barcelona.
Luka Modric came off the bench to fire a rocket past Orjan Nyland in a match that looked headed for a draw until the maestro’s impact in the 81st minute.
The win was crucial, as Barcelona’s convincing victory over Getafe 24 hours before the match saw them cut the deficit on Los Blancos to only five points.
And with comments from Barcelona stars like Joao Felix following the game, stating that the Blaugrana were still in the fight for the league title, dropped points at home this evening would have galvanised their chasers.
With the suspension of Carvajal, the injury to Jude Bellingham, and the return of Antonio Rudiger from injury, Lucas Vazquez and Nacho came into the starting lineup, with Aurelien Tchouameni returning to midfield after his stint in central defence.
Vazquez proved himself a worthy substitute with his performance all game, particularly in the 13th minute when he beat Nyland and seemingly put Real Madrid ahead. However, a foul by Nacho in the build-up, caused the goal to be ruled out.
Valverde came close to giving Real Madrid the lead on separate occasions with his first attempt – a long-range shot – saved by Nyland, and the second from just the edge of the box crashed to the bottom right.
Modric replaced Nacho in the 75th minute, and six minutes later he curled one into the corner to give Madrid the lead, and eventually the winner.
