Mbappe Shines as Bernabeu Bids Farewell to Ancelotti, Modric
TDT | Manama
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Real Madrid closed their LaLiga campaign with a 2-0 victory over Real Sociedad at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday, delivering a fitting tribute to departing manager Carlo Ancelotti and midfielder Luka Modric.
Emotional Farewell
The Bernabeu was steeped in emotion as fans honoured Ancelotti, who will manage Brazil after next month’s Club World Cup, and Modric, set to leave following the tournament. Giant banners of both icons adorned the stands, with Modric’s starting announcement met by thunderous applause. Fans chanted his name in the 10th minute, and both teams formed a guard of honour for his 87th-minute substitution. Lucas Vazquez, reportedly departing, also received a standing ovation.
Mbappe’s Brilliance
Kylian Mbappe stole the spotlight, scoring twice to secure the win. After Unai Marrero saved his 37th-minute penalty—awarded via VAR for Pablo Marin’s handball—Mbappe rifled in the rebound for his 30th LaLiga goal. His second, a sharp finish from Vinicius Jr’s precise through ball, virtually secured the Pichichi award as the league’s top scorer, joining Pruden, Romario, and Ronaldo as debutants to reach 30 goals.
Sociedad’s Struggle
Real Sociedad, led by Takefusa Kubo’s lively runs, couldn’t convert promising moves into clear chances. The visitors, farewelling manager Imanol Alguacil after seven years marked by a Copa del Rey and five consecutive European campaigns, finish 11th with 46 points.
Madrid’s Season Closes
With Barcelona clinching LaLiga, Madrid secured second place with 84 points. Despite the title slipping away, the hosts displayed their quality, driven by Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. As Ancelotti and Modric approach their final chapter at the Club World Cup, Saturday’s emotional farewell cemented their legacy.
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