Modric goal lifts Real Madrid

MADRID, Spain (AFP) — Luka Modric scored a brilliant goal from long range to help Real Madrid secure a 2-0 win against Girona on Sunday which took them back level with Barcelona at the top of La Liga.

Vinicius Junior wrapped up the win late on as Carlo Ancelotti’s side produced a solid display at the Santiago Bernabeu.

After rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, now third, both won on Saturday, the pressure was on for the champions in the title race.

They had not won in their prior three league games but flexed their muscles by thrashing Man City in the Champions League in midweek.

“It’s a very important win, we have to stay in the fight,” Modric told Real Madrid TV.

“We can’t let our level slip and consider ourselves satisfied, we can still grow as a team.”

The Croatian’s goal was the highlight of the match.

“I was by myself, I controlled the ball, I hit it well and it went in,” Modric added.

“I don’t know if it’s one of the most spectacular I’ve scored, it was really nice, it’s always special to score at the Bernabeu.”

Madrid was without suspended England international Jude Bellingham after his red card last weekend.

Thibaut Courtois made a good save in the opening stages to deny Arnau Martinez, but Girona was unable to build on the chance.

Last year’s surprise title contenders were hard for Madrid to break down but far less threatening in attack than at their fluent best.

At the other end, Paulo Gazzaniga saved well from Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius let a good attacking opportunity break down instead of looking for his French strike partner.

Another promising Real Madrid counter-attack was cut short when Vinicius tried to square for Mbappe but his pass was cut out.

Girona winger Viktor Tsygankov should have struck for the visitors but blazed a good opportunity over the bar, snatching at his shot.

With the game trickling towards half-time, Modric sent Madrid ahead with a rocket from distance.