Anna 
Real Madrid ended a three-match winless streak in La Liga with a vital 2-0 victory over Girona at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday. The win moved the defending champions level on points with league leaders Barcelona, though they were unable to significantly reduce the goal difference gap.
Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid’s manager, expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance. Speaking to *Marca*, he described the match as “well controlled” and highlighted the return of David Alaba, who made his first start in 14 months after recovering from a serious knee injury.
“We played well and controlled the game,” Ancelotti said. “The best news today is Alaba’s recovery. He played 60 minutes very comfortably. We are starting to recover key players in defense, and I was able to rest players like Valverde and Rudiger. We are entering the most important part of the season in great shape.”
Ancelotti also reserved special praise for Luka Modric, who scored the opening goal with a stunning volley. The 39-year-old Croatian midfielder delivered a masterful performance, earning him the MVP award from La Liga.
“I’ve run out of words to describe Modric,” Ancelotti said. “He is always spectacular. He’s a gift to football and can continue as long as he wants. We are lucky to have a legend who has defined an era here. Football is blessed to have someone of his quality and professionalism.”
Modric’s future at Real Madrid remains uncertain, as his contract expires at the end of the season. Despite his age and reduced playing time in recent months, his performance against Girona proved he still has much to offer.
The victory was a timely boost for Real Madrid as they prepare for the decisive phase of the season, with key players returning to form and fitness.
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