Ancelotti had forgotten about Modric, but he proved he is key for Real Madrid

Real Madrid were on a mission on Sunday to get a win at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium against Sevilla to prevent Barcelona and Girona from closing in on the top of La Liga standings. Los Blaugranas had beaten Getafe 4-0 on Saturday and were only five points behind; while Los Tozudos, with one point less, will play Rayo Vallecano on Monday.

Related news:

Were Real Madrid wronged? The controversial VAR decision vs Sevilla

For Carlo Ancelotti it was a challenge to get the team to show a good level despite not having some of the stars of the squad due to different injuries. Undoubtedly the most important of the absentees was Jude Bellingham, who has been sidelined for weeks with an ankle problem. Although he is starting to train with intensity, he was not yet ready to play this Sunday and is expected to return next week against Valencia.

During the first half the team struggled to make the difference. After 10 minutes Lucas Vazquez had scored the opener, but the VAR reviewed it and disallowed the goal for a foul by Nacho against En-Nersyri in the previous play. That affected Real Madrid, who could not show a great performance in the following minutes.

After the break, things changed. Both teams had chances to score and the goalkeepers made excellent saves. Until, after 30 minutes, Carlo Ancelotti made the decision that changed the match: he included Luka Modric in the lineup to replace Nacho. And the Croatian midfielder worked his magic, as just a few minutes later he captured a rebound outside the box and shot powerfully with his right foot, making it impossible for goalkeeper Nyland to save. That lead was enough for Los Merengues, who remain at the top of La Liga standings.

Related news:

The fortune Mbappé could earn at Real Madrid thanks to the 'Beckham law'

He needs to stand out

Luka Modric has had a difficult season, as coach Ancelotti no longer considers him a key part of the team as in previous years and has instead given priority to other younger players such as Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham. This sparked rumors of his possible departure next summer, but with Sunday's goal perhaps things will change for him.