Real Madrid vs Villarreal
Don’t miss out on the complete replay and highlights of the thrilling match between Real Madrid and Villarreal. The action kicks off at 20:00 (GMT) on the 17th of December 2023. The referee for this intense showdown is none other than Jorge Figueroa. The game took place at the iconic Estadio Santiago Bernabéu. Brace yourself for a riveting match in Spain’s La Liga, Week 17 of Season 2023/2024. You won’t want to miss a second of this electrifying event.
Real Madrid vs Villarreal Full Match Reports
Real Madrid reclaimed the summit of the LaLiga table, showcasing their dominance with a 4-1 triumph over Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, extending their undefeated streak in the top-flight to an impressive 13 games.
Although last week’s 1-1 draw against Real Betis briefly allowed underdogs Girona to snatch the LaLiga lead, Real seized the opportunity to regain the top spot, albeit provisionally ahead of Girona’s clash with Deportivo Alavés on Monday night. Facing Villarreal, who had managed only one win in their last five league fixtures, Real Madrid aimed to assert their authority.
The initial 20 minutes offered little excitement, with Brahim Díaz’s attempt from a tight angle, deflected behind for a corner by Filip Jörgensen, being the only notable opportunity. However, past the halfway point of the first half, Los Blancos broke the deadlock. Jude Bellingham skillfully directed Luka Modrić’s first-time chipped pass into the corner with a precise header.
Despite falling behind, Villarreal showed limited attacking prowess and appeared sluggish. Real Madrid, not operating at their peak, doubled their lead just before halftime with Rodrygo’s close-range strike, confirmed after a VAR check for offside. The first 45 minutes would have been ideal for Carlo Ancelotti if not for losing David Alaba to what seemed like a severe knee injury.
As the saying goes, a 2-0 lead can be precarious, and within the opening 10 minutes of the second half, El Submarino Amarillo halved the deficit. José Luis Morales capitalized on Gerard Moreno’s well-weighted pass, striking into the bottom corner despite Andriy Lunin’s efforts. However, Real responded swiftly, securing a three-goal lead before the midway point of the second half. Brahim Díaz showcased nimble footwork in the penalty area before clinically finishing, and Modrić capped off a stellar individual performance by slotting beyond Jörgensen’s desperate low dive. Following that, Madrid comfortably managed the remainder of the game, maintaining their advantage on the scoreboard.
Overall, it was an impressive performance from the 14-time European champions, concluding 2023 with a visit to Alavés as they pursue the league title. Meanwhile, despite Villarreal’s midweek victory in the UEFA Europa League, this defeat leaves them precariously positioned, just three points above the relegation zone after 17 matchdays. They will be eager to rebound swiftly and distance themselves from the threat of relegation.