Real Madrid secured a 2‑0 victory over Levante at the Santiago Bernabéu on 17 January 2026, moving to 34 points and extending their lead to three points over Barcelona in the La Liga title race. Goals from Luka Modrić and Karim Benzema restored momentum after a recent dip, while Levante’s red card sealed the outcome.
Match Summary
First Half
From the opening whistle, Madrid dominated possession at 64 % and generated fifteen shots, nine on target. The breakthrough came in the 34th minute when Fran García’s low cross found Luka Modrić, who slipped a side‑foot finish past goalkeeper Álex Remiro to give the hosts a 1‑0 lead.
Second Half
Levante pressed higher but failed to convert a set‑piece header that rattled the cross‑bar in the 58th minute. Madrid responded swiftly; Vinícius Júnior’s run down the left wing provided a curling pass that Karim Benzema headed into the net in the 77th minute, securing a comfortable 2‑0 advantage. A late red card for Óscar Román left Levante with ten men.
Tactical Analysis
Key Players
- Luka Modrić – Scored the opening goal and controlled midfield tempo.
- Karl Benzema – Delivered the decisive header, highlighting his continued influence.
- Vinícius Júnior – Provided pace and creativity on the left flank, earning an assist.
- Éder Militao – Anchored the defense with crucial interceptions.
Title Race Impact
Madrid’s Position
The win returns Real Madrid to the top of La Liga with 34 points, three ahead of FC Barcelona. Their defensive record improves, having conceded only two goals in the last five league matches, signaling a tightening grip on the championship.
Barcelona Challenge
Barcelona, riding a three‑match winning streak, must now close the three‑point gap. Madrid’s blend of veteran leadership and youthful vigor, exemplified by Benzema and Vinícius, provides a tactical edge in upcoming fixtures.
Levante’s Situation
Levante remains in 17th place, three points above the relegation zone. Despite the loss, the narrow scoreline against league leaders demonstrates defensive resilience. The team must convert this solidity into points against fellow strugglers such as Girona and Alavés to secure safety.
Statistics
- Possession: Real Madrid 64 % – Levante 36 %
- Shots (on target): Madrid 15 (9) – Levante 6 (2)
- Corners: Madrid 7 – Levante 3
- Fouls: Madrid 12 – Levante 16
- Cards: Madrid 2 yellow – Levante 3 yellow, 1 red
Looking Ahead
Madrid’s next challenge is a pivotal clash with Atlético Madrid, a fixture that could shape the title outcome. Maintaining their current balance of experience and emerging talent will be crucial. Levante must build on their defensive performance and secure points in the remaining six games to avoid relegation.
