Immediate Reaction: Real Madrid 4 – 2 Sevilla

Real Madrid closed out the 2024 calendar year in style with a commanding 4-2 victory over Sevilla on Sunday afternoon at the Santiago Bernabeu. The win propels Los Blancos to second place in La Liga, just one point behind leaders Atletico Madrid, setting up an exciting second half of the season.

The match was marked by standout performances from multiple players, but none shone brighter than Kylian Mbappe. The Frenchman showcased his full repertoire, delivering an all-encompassing display of dribbling, link-up, playmaking, and execution.

Mbappe opened the scoring with a breathtaking strike from outside the box. His contributions didn’t stop there; he played a pivotal role in the build-up to Brahim Diaz’s goal, assisting with precision, and consistently linked play across both flanks.

Ten minutes after Mbappe’s opener, Fede Valverde doubled Real Madrid’s lead with a thunderous strike from outside the box. A short corner routine found the Uruguayan in space, and he unleashed a venomous shot that curved away from Sevilla goalkeeper Alvaro Fernandez, who could do nothing but watch it hit the back of the net.

Real Madrid’s transition play was a sight to behold throughout the game, as their vertical passing and incisive ball carrying consistently carved open Sevilla’s defense. The team’s third goal epitomized this approach, with Lucas Vazquez delivering a pinpoint pass to Rodrygo, who finished clinically inside the box after a swift counter-attacking sequence.

The fourth goal came shortly after the half-time break, following another intricate build-up sequence with Mbappe once again at the heart of it. The fluidity and creativity in Real Madrid’s attacking play had the Bernabeu buzzing, and the scoreline could have been even more lopsided were it not for some missed opportunities.

Despite their dominance, Real Madrid’s defense conceded twice, with both goals coming at the tail ends of each half. In the 35th minute, Isaac Romero capitalized on a lapse in marking from Aurelien Tchouameni to head home Sevilla’s first. Late in the game, Luka Modric’s turnover in midfield led to a quick Sevilla counter, which Dodi Lukebakio finished at the near post past Thibaut Courtois, who could have done better to narrow the angle.

While the defensive lapses will provide material for reflection, this performance showcased Real Madrid’s attacking potential in full flow. This game will give fans plenty of optimism heading into 2025.

Managing Madrid will have an in-depth breakdown of this game on YouTube shortly, as well as detailed tactical analysis on the website. For now, this victory serves as a powerful statement and a fitting way to conclude the year.