Casemiro wonder goal helps Real Madrid defeat Sevilla

Casemiro's stunning long-range strike and a late goal from Luka Modric earned Real Madrid a 2-0 win over Sevilla and a much-needed boost to their flailing title challenge in La Liga.

Madrid began the day 10 points adrift of leaders Barcelona, a gap that will be restored if the Catalans defeat Leganes on Sunday, but this victory should inject a timely shot of confidence.

Casemiro's bending effort in the 78th minute and Modric's injury-time finish settled a compelling contest of third against fourth but Madrid were dominant in the second half and, in the end, deserved the points.

It means they move above Sevilla and behind Atletico Madrid, who stay second after running out 3-0 winners away at bottom-club Huesca.

Diego Simeone's side remain Barca's most tenacious challengers but for Real, this was their most impressive result in weeks, following a run of only two wins from five matches.

"Beating your direct rivals is always worth more than three points," coach Santiago Solari said afterwards. "The celebration for our first goal was pure joy."
"Considering he played with a cut, and stitches, he is a fighter. The fact he scored in the last minute shows his spirit and the spirit of the team."
"I have always said there would be moments this season where we were not playing so well."
- Isco, Marcelo left out -
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