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Following Real Madrid’s victory over Atalanta in the UEFA Super Cup on August 14, Luka Modric became the most decorated player in the club’s illustrious history. With this trophy, the Croatian midfield maestro has now amassed 27 honors during his 12-year tenure with Los Blancos.
The final scoreline (2-0) was flattering for Madrid as they largely struggled in the first half, with Atalanta’s pressing creating problems. However, their attacking prowess eventually shone in the second half, as they broke through a resolute Atalanta defense.
Around the hour mark, Vinicius Junior wriggled past several challenges in the penalty area before setting up Federico Valverde for an easy tap-in. Just nine minutes later, Kylian Mbappe scored on his debut to seal the victory on a memorable night.
Modric came on in the 76th minute to replace Rodrygo. Carlo Ancelotti relied on the 38-year-old’s experience to control the tempo and see the game through to secure the trophy. He also wore the captain's armband when he entered the pitch and was ultimately at the center of the celebration as he lifted the trophy, which seemed fitting given his achievements.
Jude Bellingham was among the teammates who congratulated the Croatian on his accomplishments via social media. Nacho Fernandez, who Modric surpassed in terms of trophy count, also expressed his appreciation.
Modric, who signed for the Los Blancos in 2012, had a poor start to life in Madrid. However, he ultimately emerged as one of the world’s best midfielders, with his trophy collection including six Champions League titles and four La Liga titles, while he also won the Ballon d’Or in 2018.
Carlo Ancelotti expresses his satisfaction following Real Madrid’s Super Cup success
It wasn’t just Luka Modric who set a record on Wednesday night; Real Madrid’s manager, Carlo Ancelotti, became the most successful manager in Europe with his fifth Super Cup win.
Ancelotti will undoubtedly be pleased with the performance, as Madrid faced a tough test but ultimately emerged unscathed. Speaking to the media after winning another title, he said:
“It is an honour and a privilege to live these nights here, suffering, fighting and winning too. I am very happy. It is an honour to coach this team. We did well. Atalanta played very well. They were very strong in their duels. When the game opened up a bit, we were able to show our quality. It was not an easy game. Atalanta played very well.” (via Managing Madrid)
When asked if managing this world-class team of talents would present challenges, Ancelotti said that finding the right balance, especially in attack, will be his most difficult task this season.
“The most difficult thing is to find a balance with the quality we have up front. We hope to have a fantastic season. I think we will find this balance," he added.
Real Madrid will now shift their focus to La Liga, where they will face Mallorca on August 18 before playing their first home game against Real Valladolid on August 25.
