5 key passes, 8 accurate long balls: Luka Modric puts in another masterful display for Real Madrid against Athletic Club | OneFootball

Real Madrid had another stern test awaiting them as they returned to action to face Athletic Club in La Liga after the demoralising defeat to Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League.

With their UCL campaign over, the Merengues needed to put in a good performance against Ernesto Valverde’s team to raise the spirits of their players and the fans, and also to remain in contention for the league race after Barcelona’s victory over Celta Vigo a day before.

Carlo Ancelotti’s team did not disappoint, as they put in a dominant display against one of the better sides in the league at the Santiago Bernabeu and got a 1-0 victory.

Real Madrid remained in control of the match, and their superiority in the midfield gave them a clear advantage over their rivals on the night.

Aurelien Tchouameni once again put in a good shift, while Dani Ceballos also showed his characteristic grit and passing as he returned to the starting eleven for the first time since his recovery.

However, the 39-year-old Luka Modric once again ran the show in the middle of the pitch. The Croatian magician kept the ball running for the Merengues in the midfield, allowing the forwards to create a high number of chances.

As Sofascore statistics show, the veteran midfielder got on the ball 102 times in the 72 minutes he remained on the pitch, and completed 77 of his 85 attempted passes, with a 91% accuracy. He put in 5 key passes for his team, creating 1 big chance. Furthermore, 8 of his 12 long balls were accurate, and he also found the target with 3 of his 8 attempted crosses.

The Croatian legend also contributed well to the defence, even though Athletic Club’s chances were few and far between. He made 3 tackles and 1 interception on the night, while winning 3 of the 4 ground duels he was engaged in.

Unfortunately, despite these contributions, Modric was unable to see his team score a goal in the time he remained on the pitch. However, this performance once again reminded everyone of his skills, and there is no doubt that everyone will miss his magic once he decides to hang up his boots or join a weaker league to end his career.