In Saturday’s Real Madrid vs Real Sociedad match at the Santiago Bernabéu, the hosts combined on-field dominance with stirring tributes for departing legends Carlo Ancelotti and Luka Modrić. A 2-0 victory—powered by two clinical finishes from Kylian Mbappé—sent the French superstar to 31 league goals and delivered manager Ancelotti and Modrić a perfect send-off before their next chapters.
Emotional Farewell Amid Routine Win
Before kickoff, giant banners celebrating Ancelotti’s trophy haul and Modrić’s storied career draped the stands. Announcing Modrić in the starting eleven drew thunderous applause, and in the 10th minute fans rose to chant his name. When the Croatian was substituted in the 87th minute, both teams formed a guard of honor as he left the pitch.
Lucas Vázquez, also said to be departing at season’s end, earned his own ovation upon his second-half substitution. The emotional atmosphere contrasted sharply with the clinical football that unfolded on the field.
Mbappé’s Double: How Real Madrid Sealed the Win
Real Madrid’s first clear chance arrived in a lively opening half. Mbappé tested Sociedad’s keeper Unai Marrero with two powerful efforts before a VAR-checked handball on Pablo Marín in the 37th minute awarded Madrid a penalty. Mbappé’s spot-kick was saved, but the prolific forward was quickest to the rebound, tapping in for his 30th league goal.
After the break, Ancelotti introduced Vinícius Júnior in the 55th minute. Less than ten minutes from time, Vinícius threaded a delicate through-ball to Mbappé, who turned from a tight angle and drilled the ball home, his 31st goal of the season. The result all but ensured Mbappé’s claim on the Pichichi trophy.
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Key match moments included:
- Opening salvo: Mbappé’s early attempts forced smart saves from Marrero.
- Penalty rebound: Recovered for Mbappé’s 30th goal.
- Assist from Vinícius: Set up Mbappé’s second, cementing his place among LaLiga greats.
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A Historic Campaign for Mbappé
Mbappé becomes just the fourth player in LaLiga history to net 30 goals in a debut season. He joins:
- Pruden (33 goals in 1940–41)
- Romário (30 in 1993–94)
- Ronaldo Nazário (34 in 1996–97)
Despite their firepower, Real finished second with 84 points, one shy of champions Barcelona, who hold a game in hand.
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Real Sociedad’s Farewell to Alguacil
In the visitors’ dugout, Real Sociedad also bade adieu to a long-serving figure. Manager Imanol Alguacil, in charge for seven seasons and the architect of Copa del Rey glory and five straight European campaigns, watched ruefully as his side became the Bernabéu’s latest victims. Midfielder Takefusa Kubo impressed with mazy runs but lacked support to carve out real chances. Sociedad end the season 11th with 46 points.
Ancelotti and Modrić: Legends Departing in Style
Carlo Ancelotti leaves Real Madrid as the club’s most decorated manager. Over two stints, he lifted 15 major trophies, including four Champions Leagues. On Friday, he was confirmed as Brazil’s next national team coach.
Luka Modrić, who joined in 2012, departs after next month’s Club World Cup. He finishes as Real’s ninth-most capped player with 591 appearances, 43 goals, and 95 assists. His influence extended beyond statistics; his vision and leadership defined an era.
Looking Ahead: Postseason and Beyond
Real Madrid’s season ends with club leadership transitions and transfer speculation. They will regroup for the U.S. Club World Cup before charting a path under incoming Brazil coach Ancelotti’s successor. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad will search for a new manager to build on Alguacil’s achievements.
As for LaLiga, Barcelona travel to Athletic Bilbao on Sunday eyeing the title, while Madrid reflects on a season of milestones—most notably Mbappé’s historic tally and a memorable farewell match. Fans at the Bernabéu left in celebration, their hearts full of gratitude for two of modern football’s greatest figures.
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