Modric, Benzema Lead Real Madrid To 12th Spanish Super Cup Crown
Real Madrid have won the Spanish Super Cup trophy following a 2-0 win over Athletic Bilbao at the King Fahd Stadium in Riyahd, Saudi Arabia on Sunday night.
Luka Modric and Karim Benzema scored both goals, in the first and second halves respectively for Carlo Ancelotti’s side that finished the match with ten men following Eder Militao’s dismissal for handball.
The Spanish capital club made it 12 Super Cup titles with victory against Bilbao, leaving them one behind Barcelona, their arch rivals in the history books.
Real Madrid have defeated Athletic Bilbao in both their meetings this season, and Los Merengues got the breakthrough goal on 38 minutes, the ageless Modric curling beautifully into the top corner from Rodrygo’s pass.
The video assistant referee (VAR) awarded Real a penalty early in the second half following a review, and Benzema dispatched to double the advantage on 52 minutes.
VAR was also on hand to present Athletic Bilbao with an opportunity to reduce the deficit from the spot following a handball by Militao.
The Brazilian defender was dismissed for the foul. Raul Garcia however saw his spotkick saved by Thibaut Courtois to loud cheers from the fans.
The Spanish Super Cup trophy is Ancelotti’s first title following his return to the 13-time UEFA champions league winners in the summer.
