Defeat Sevilla, Real Madrid join Barcelona in tight La Liga top race.

Real Madrid once again demonstrated their consistency at the top of La Liga this season. Playing in front of their home supporters at Santiago Bernabeu, Los Blancos successfully defeated Sevilla 2-0 in the match held on Sunday, December 21, 2025. This victory extended the positive trend for the team coached by Carlo Ancelotti while maintaining pressure on league leaders Barcelona.

The additional three points bring Real Madrid's total to 42 points from their matches played so far. They now trail Barcelona by just one point, with the Catalan club remaining at the top. Meanwhile, Sevilla had to settle for ninth place with 20 points, a result that doesn't fully reflect the Andalusian club's big ambitions at the start of the season.

Real Madrid's victory in this match was sealed by Jude Bellingham's first-half goal and a penalty conversion by Kylian Mbappe late in the game. Although the final score appeared convincing, the match featured high tension and several crucial moments that influenced its flow.

Real Madrid's Dominance and Bellingham's Opening Goal

From the opening whistle, Real Madrid immediately took attacking initiative. Playing with organized ball possession, they attempted to dismantle Sevilla's defense through quick passing combinations in midfield. Jude Bellingham again served as the engine of their play, while Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior actively created space from the wings.

Sevilla didn't solely defend. The visitors tried to counter Real's pressure with quick counterattacks, utilizing the speed of their forwards. However, the solidity of Real Madrid's defensive line repeatedly stopped Sevilla's opportunities before they could truly threaten the goal.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 32nd minute. Real Madrid earned a Free kick in an ideal position. Rodrygo, stepping up as the executor, delivered a measured cross into the penalty area. Jude Bellingham made an unmarked run and connected with a powerful header beyond the reach of Sevilla's goalkeeper. This goal reaffirmed Bellingham's crucial role as both goalscorer and versatile midfielder for Real Madrid this season.

After the goal, the match intensity increased. Sevilla attempted to raise their tempo to find an equalizer. They sent several balls into Real's defensive area but failed to create clear chances. Conversely, Real Madrid appeared increasingly comfortable controlling the match.

Sevilla's situation worsened towards the end of the first half. In the 45+5th minute, Sevilla's coach Matias Almeyda had to leave the technical area after receiving a red card for vehemently protesting the referee's decision. This became a psychological blow for the visiting team already trailing by one goal.

Sevilla Loses Control and Marcao's Red Card

Entering the second half, Sevilla played without their head coach on the sidelines. Nevertheless, they continued to show resistance. Some tactical adjustments were made, attempting more direct play to pressure Real Madrid's defense.

Sevilla's efforts occasionally troubled the hosts, particularly through set pieces and quick attacks from the wings. But Real Madrid remained disciplined defensively, allowing few opportunities for the opposition to develop.

Major trouble struck Sevilla again in the 65th minute. Their defender Marcao received a straight red card for a dangerous foul. This decision forced Sevilla to continue with ten players, significantly altering the match's balance.

With a numerical advantage, Real Madrid comfortably controlled the game tempo. They didn't rush to add goals, choosing instead to maintain possession and Draw Sevilla out of their defensive block. This strategy increasingly fatigued the visitors, who struggled to maintain organized play.

Sevilla kept trying to defend while occasionally launching counterattacks. But with the team in such condition, their efforts often broke down before reaching the final third.

Mbappe's Penalty Seals Victory for Los Blancos

As the match entered its final stages, Real Madrid's pressure produced a second goal. In a situation inside the penalty area, Juanlu Sanchez fouled Rodrygo. The referee immediately pointed to the spot, giving Real Madrid a golden opportunity to double their lead.

Kylian Mbappe, entrusted as the penalty taker, calmly executed his duty. In the 86th minute, the French striker successfully beat Sevilla's goalkeeper with a precise shot, securing a 2-0 advantage for Real Madrid. This goal also confirmed Mbappe's increasingly vital contributions in crucial moments of Real's gameplay.

The score remained unchanged until the final whistle. Real Madrid concluded the match with a victory that not only delivered three points but maintained their momentum in the pursuit of this season's La Liga title.