Luka Modrić played a massive role in Real Madrid’s 4-1 victory vs. Celta Vigo in LaLiga scoring a rocket of a goal from distance and picking up an assist. The Croatian maestro was at his very best on Saturday even without his usual midfield companions Toni Kroos and Casemiro.
With Toni Kroos missing the game due to illness and Casemiro on his way to join Manchester United the Real Madrid midfield consisted of Modrić, Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni.
The new-look Madrid midfield played well, but Modrić was simply on another level. Modrić beamed with confidence on the ball every time it came to him. With the score tied at 1-1 he unleashed a beautiful shot from over 20 yards out to give Madrid the lead to go into the half.
Luka Modrić Goal vs Celta Vigo
LUKA MODRIC FROM OUTSIDE OF THE BOX pic.twitter.com/LnThHLIHnr
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) August 20, 2022
In the second half Modrić picked up an assist with a perfect pass to Vinícius Jr. who slotted in Real Madrid’s third goal.
THE BALL FROM MODRIC. THE FINISH FROM VINICIUS.
WHAT A GOAL BY REAL MADRID pic.twitter.com/WXoqJwDC0Q— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) August 20, 2022
When the Croatian was substituted in the 77th minute the Celta Vigo fans inside the Estadio de Balaídos stood on their feet to applaud the masterclass they had just witnessed. Modrić is simply different gravy.
Celta Vigo Fans Applaud Modrić
Celta Vigo fans gave Luka Modric a standing ovation when he was subbed off pic.twitter.com/oz7e2Q3SZe
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) August 20, 2022
The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner will turn 37 next month and his days with Real Madrid are numbered, but he’s still got it.
Luca de la Torre Debut
USMNT midfielder Luca de la Torre made his club debut for Celta Vigo during Saturday’s game. He wasn’t put in the greatest situation as he was substituted into the game in the 87th minute with his side trailing by three goals.
Probably could've happened 10 minutes before this, but Luca de la Torre makes his La Liga debut! pic.twitter.com/aVjVEwnEDV
— Daniel (@DanielSmith1022) August 20, 2022
Celta Vigo manager Eduardo Coudet has yet to start the American after two games. It will be interesting to see if de la Torre can work his way into the starting XI as the season progresses.
