In the final La Liga match of 2024, Real Madrid delivered a clinical 4-2 victory against Sevilla FC at the Santiago Bernabéu, regaining second place in the league standings. With FC Barcelona slipping to a surprising defeat against Atlético Madrid earlier, Carlo Ancelotti’s men capitalized on the opportunity, bolstering their title hopes as the year closes.
Early Brilliance Sets the Tone
Fielding a slightly reshuffled lineup due to Vinicius Jr.’s absence, Ancelotti deployed a potent front trio of Kylian Mbappé, Rodrygo, and Brahim Diaz, supported by the ever-creative Jude Bellingham. Defensive adjustments saw Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni anchoring the backline, with the latter struggling at times to adapt.
It didn’t take long for the Merengues to assert dominance. Just 10 minutes in, Mbappé, thriving as a central striker, unleashed a thunderous shot into the top corner after a clever assist from Rodrygo. The French superstar’s form remains dazzling, with this goal marking his fourth in as many La Liga appearances.
Federico Valverde doubled the lead in spectacular fashion in the 20th minute, smashing a rocket from 30 meters out following a well-orchestrated corner routine. A composed Rodrygo added a third soon after, converting a precise cross from Lucas Vázquez to put Madrid firmly in control.
Sevilla’s Fightback Falls Short
Sevilla, struggling at 12th place, showed signs of life moments later. Isaac Romero capitalized on Tchouaméni’s lapse in marking to head home and reduce the deficit just before halftime. While Carlo Ancelotti’s frustration was evident, Madrid managed the game efficiently thereafter, snuffing out Sevilla’s attempts to rally.
Mbappé turned provider in the second half, setting up Brahim Diaz for a polished finish in the 53rd minute. Though Sevilla found a late consolation goal from Dodi Lukebakio, it was not enough to shake Madrid’s composure or the outcome of the match.
Ancelotti’s Record-Breaking Year
This win adds another feather to Carlo Ancelotti’s illustrious cap, closing the year with Madrid firmly in contention for La Liga glory. With a game in hand and an in-form squad led by Mbappé, Bellingham, and Valverde, the road to reclaiming domestic dominance looks promising.
For Sevilla, the defeat highlights a season of inconsistency, leaving them entrenched in the mid-table doldrums. Meanwhile, Real Madrid, resurgent and relentless, sets its sights on 2025 with ambitions undimmed.
As the Bernabéu faithful departed, the chants of celebration echoed a simple truth: Madrid is back in the hunt, and the race for the La Liga crown is wide open.
