Luka Modric’s 81st-minute strike seals massive win for Madrid over Sevilla 

Luka Modric’s 81st-minute goal was the difference, as Real Madrid defeated Sevilla 1-0 to go eight points clear on the La Liga summit on Sunday.

Despite the absence of striker Joselu, Madrid started the encounter the brighter side and got a goal in the 10th minute through Lucas Vázquez, but after a lengthy VAR review, the goal was disallowed due to Nacho’s foul on Youssef En-Nesyri in the buildup.

Consequently, Sevilla’s defence, led by ex-Madrid Captain Sergio Ramos, frustrated Madrid’s attackers, leaving goalkeeper Orjan Nyland uninvolved until he had to make stunning saves to deny Federico Valverde and Vinicius’ strike to see the game enter the break goalless.

The end-to-end exchange between both times continued into the second half, prompting Carlo Ancelloti to bring on Luka Modric for Nacho with less than fifteen minutes left to play at the Santiago Bernabéu.

The substitution proved decisive as the Croatian legend grabbed a stunning goal for the Los Blancos within six minutes of his introduction.

The win means Real Madrid remains undefeated at home in their last 18 matches (15 wins and 3 draws), as they forge on in their quest to win their 36th La Liga title.