Luka Modric, at 39, became the oldest player to ever feature for Real Madrid. He made history as his team defeated Celta Vigo in La Liga. Modric came on as a second-half substitute and provided the assist for Vinicius Jr.’s match-winning goal. His experience and skill helped guide Real to victory in a tough encounter.
With this win, Real Madrid now stands level on points with Barcelona at the top of Spain’s La Liga. Barcelona will face Sevilla at 20:00 BST on Sunday. However, Real trails Barcelona on goal difference and has played one game more.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti praised Modric, calling him a “top professional and a great guy.” He expressed his pleasure in coaching Modric and acknowledged all that he has achieved. “Everything he’s been able to achieve and is achieving, he deserves,” Ancelotti told Real Madrid TV.
Kylian Mbappe Scoring Just 20 Minutes
The match started brightly for Real Madrid. Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring just 20 minutes in with a stunning long-range strike. He took one touch and whipped the ball into the top corner after a precise pass from Eduardo Camavinga.
Despite this early lead, Real Madrid did not dominate the match. Celta Vigo created several good chances. Williot Swedberg should have scored before Mbappe’s goal. He fired wide when he was one-on-one with Thibaut Courtois.
Real Madrid struggled defensively, and Celta tested them with multiple counter-attacks. The Madrid side failed to create many problems for the hosts. Their shaky defense allowed Celta to equalize just five minutes after halftime. Swedberg scored by turning home a low delivery into the box from Oscar Mingueza.
Vinicius thought he restored Real’s lead quickly after Celta’s equalizer. However, his goal was ruled out for offside, just as Borja Iglesias’s goal had been ruled out for Celta after Mbappe’s strike.
Vinicius eventually put Real Madrid back in front ten minutes later. He connected with Modric’s well-weighted pass from deep in midfield. Vinicius skillfully turned the ball past Celta goalkeeper Vicente Guaita, regaining the lead for Real.
Ancelotti expressed his satisfaction with the result. “I’m happy because we won after the international break, which is not always easy,” he said.
Real Madrid will shift their focus to the Champions League next. They will play Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday at 20:00. The match promises to be another test for the team, especially with their recent performances in La Liga.
Modric’s contribution at 39 years old serves as an inspiration to many. His longevity and skill at the highest level of football highlight his remarkable career. As Real Madrid continues to compete for titles, Modric remains a crucial player in their quest for success.
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