Real Madrid secured a 2‑0 victory over Levante at the Santiago Bernabéu, moving to 71 points and tightening the La Liga race to a single point behind leaders Barcelona. Kylian Mbappé opened scoring, followed by Raul Asencio’s second‑half strike, while fan protests echoed throughout the stadium, highlighting the off‑field tensions.
Match Summary: Real Madrid 2-0 Levante
The home side dominated possession with 55 % but struggled to create clear chances early on. After a disciplined first half, a perfectly timed through‑ball from Luka Modrić split Levante’s defense, allowing Mbappé to slot the ball into the bottom corner in the 57th minute. The lead prompted Madrid to press higher, culminating in Asencio’s decisive finish in the 78th minute.
Key Moments and Player Performances
Kylian Mbappé earned man‑of‑the‑match honors, not only for his goal but also for his relentless work rate, registering three key passes and covering the most distance on the pitch (11 km). Raul Asencio marked his first goal for the club, showcasing the immediate impact of his summer signing.
Defensively, Éder Militão marshaled the back line, while full‑back Dani Carvajal provided width with two dangerous crosses.
Statistical Overview
- Possession: Madrid 55 % – Levante 45 %
- Shots (on target): Madrid 12 (7) – Levante 5 (2)
- Pass Accuracy: Madrid 86 % – Levante 78 %
Title Race Implications
With the win, Real Madrid climbs to 71 points, just one behind Barcelona’s 72 after their recent 3‑1 triumph over Athletic Bilbao. The narrowing margin intensifies the battle for the championship, with three league games remaining. Madrid’s upcoming Madrid Derby against Atlético on January 25 could prove pivotal for extending their lead.
Fan Protests and Club Response
Despite the victory, supporters displayed banners demanding greater transparency and a clearer transfer strategy. The unrest reflects growing concerns over recent spending and the club’s sporting direction. President Florentino Pérez acknowledged the fans’ grievances in a post‑match statement, promising an open dialogue and praising the team’s character under pressure.
Looking Ahead
Real Madrid’s focus now shifts to maintaining momentum ahead of the high‑stakes derby and the final stretch of the season. Manager Álvaro Arbeloa’s tactical adjustments, particularly the aggressive second‑half press, could become a signature of his tenure if sustained. Meanwhile, Barcelona must avoid slip‑ups to preserve their slender lead, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to La Liga.
