Rodrygo scored a goal in each half as Real Madrid secured an all-important 2-0 win over Athletic Club at Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday to continue their lead in the La Liga title race.

The result ensured that Real Madrid remains unbeaten at home in the league this season. Athletic went into the game as one of the top four contenders, while Real Madrid spotted a new purple kit instead of the famous white kit.

However, the class was present, and the home side took the lead, thanks to a stunning strike after just eight minutes from Rodrygo, who smashed in a long-range effort.

Although Real Madrid failed to add to their eight-minute lead in the first half, they dominated the visitors from start to finish. The game is the last fixture for Carlo Ancelotti’s side before they face reigning European champions Manchester City in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie.

Nevertheless, Ernesto Valverde’s Athletic Club struggled attack-wise without Nico Williams. Real Madrid could have added a second in the second half, but Brahim Diaz hit the woodwork with a low drive. 

Later on, Toni Kroos orchestrated a lively move, which saw Rodrygo free on the left side of the attack before the Brazilian cut in and slotted past the goalkeeper.

As the Los Blancos comfortably saw out victory, defender Eder Militão returned to the field after a 232-day absence.

Athletic Bilbao’s next fixture is a Copa del Rey final against Mallorca next weekend, while Reality Madrid will be free until they play the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Manchester City on April 9.

Real Madrid now has 75 points from 30 matches, while Barca is in second place with 67 points. Athletic remain fourth in the table with 56 points from their 30 outings.

Daniel Ademiju Idowu