Real Madrid secured a convincing 4-0 victory over Leganes, narrowing the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona to just four points. The win not only boosted their position in the league standings but also provided a timely morale boost ahead of their upcoming Champions League clash with Liverpool. Jude Bellingham continued his stellar form, scoring his second league goal in as many games, helping solidify Real’s dominance in the match.
The first goal came in the 45th minute when Kylian Mbappe, who had been instrumental in the build-up, netted his seventh league goal of the season. Mbappe latched onto a low cross from Vinicius Junior, firing a powerful shot past Leganes’ goalkeeper Marko Dmitrovic. Federico Valverde extended the lead in the second half with a thunderous strike from a free-kick, which found the back of the net at Dmitrovic’s near post.
Bellingham Shines as Real Extend Their Lead
Real Madrid’s attacking prowess was on full display as Bellingham added a third goal in the 85th minute. The English midfielder reacted quickest to a deflected effort from Brahim Diaz, nodding the ball into the net after it had ricocheted off the crossbar. Although Mbappe missed a golden opportunity to score his second goal of the night, his earlier contribution was enough to help Real cement their dominant performance.
The match also saw young Arda Guler make a rare start, with the teenage winger forcing a fine save from Dmitrovic midway through the first half. Despite the dominance of Real’s attack, Leganes struggled to make an impact and were unable to threaten the returning Thibaut Courtois’ goal. Their failure to register a shot on target underscored Real’s defensive solidity and their commanding position in the game.
Injury Concerns and Tactical Adjustments for Ancelotti
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti was forced to make several adjustments due to injury concerns, with Eder Militao ruled out after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. In his absence, young Raul Asencio started in central defence, while Valverde was deployed at right-back. Despite these changes, Real’s tactical setup proved successful as they moved into second place in the La Liga standings, just four points behind Barcelona.
The victory, combined with a game in hand, offers Ancelotti’s side a strong chance to challenge for the league title, despite the growing injury concerns. Real’s injury woes are becoming a key talking point, but with the depth of talent in their squad, they remain a formidable force both in Spain and Europe. Their performance against Leganes reaffirmed their capabilities as they set their sights on the upcoming Champions League fixtures.
Perez Declares Real Madrid Is in a “New Golden Age”
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez took the opportunity during the club’s general assembly to declare that the club is entering a “new golden age,” citing the recent successes of both the football and basketball teams. Over the last 14 seasons, Real Madrid has accumulated 56 trophies, including six Champions League titles and four La Liga titles, cementing their place as one of the most successful clubs in global football.
Perez also took the chance to express his concerns over the new Champions League format, which he believes has diluted the competition’s prestige. He criticized the increased number of matches, claiming that it has reduced the excitement and passion that fans typically feel at the start of the tournament. Despite this, Perez remains steadfast in his support for the European Super League (ESL), a proposal that was initially met with backlash but has resurfaced as a potential solution to the challenges facing European football. According to Perez, this new competition could offer a fresh model for governance and reinvigorate the sport, prioritizing both player wellbeing and fan excitement.
