Real Madrid Secures Victory Over Sevilla with Key Goals

Importance of the Opening Goal

Real Madrid has demonstrated an impressive record this season by winning all 11 league matches where they scored first. The significance of the initial goal was evident, as both teams missed a prime opportunity to take the lead in the opening minutes.

Early Chances

Rodrygo and Alexis Sánchez both created chances with precise passes; however, Fran García’s attempt was blocked by Odysseas Vlachodimos. Following this, Isaac Romero attempted a shot over Thibaut Courtois, but it ended up narrowly missing the target.

Sevilla continuously applied pressure on the home team, yet the next significant opportunity fell to Kylian Mbappé ten minutes later as he directed a shot across goal from a tight angle.

After Dean Huijsen sent a header from a corner soaring over the bar, the visitors seemed capable of maintaining the scoreline until halftime.

The Game-Changing Moment

In the 38th minute, Rodrygo delivered a free-kick from the right side, and Jude Bellingham emerged to head the ball into the net, providing Los Blancos with a critical advantage.

Former Barcelona player Sánchez aimed to respond spectacularly but could only watch his bicycle kick hit the top of the net as the first half came to a close.

Second Half Struggles and Breakthrough

Mbappé, having struck on target in his last two appearances, found himself wondering how he failed to score in the opening minutes of the second half. He directed two shots directly at Vlachodimos and attempted another from the left wing that narrowly missed the post. The Sevilla goalkeeper was also tested when Mbappé’s header hit the crossbar.

Meanwhile, Sevilla kept Courtois on his toes as he made crucial saves from both Sánchez and Romero. The visitors’ hopes of securing their first away win in five matches took a hit midway through the second half when Marcão received a second yellow card for a reckless foul on Bellingham.

Late Game Developments

Matías Almeyda’s adjusted lineup required Vlachodimos to maintain their chances, notably when he deflected a powerful shot from Rodrygo onto the crossbar. With five minutes left, Rodrygo was brought down by Juanlu Sanchez in the penalty area, allowing Mbappé to convert the ensuing penalty—his 18th league goal of the season.

Although a subsequent penalty awarded to Madrid was revoked by VAR, they secured their 11th home league win out of 12 matches, while Sevilla extended their dismal streak, having lost six out of their last nine games.

Flashscore Man of the Match: Rodrygo (Real Madrid)

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