Three reasons why Real Madrid defeated Espanyol

#3. Modric ran the show

Modric had two assists to his name

Luka Modric has not been the same player he was at the World Cup or the last season in the league. His pace has dropped. He has become predictable with his passing. However, on Sunday, he again showed that when it comes to being creative in his passing, he still is right up there.

He played a part in two of three first-half goals which helped Madrid to dictate the game from the kick-off. Modric and Kroos went forward in a rotation and both had an excellent understanding of the game.

After Varane’s sending-off in the 72nd minute, Modric took the responsibility of organizing the defense and at the same time contributing to the forward play.

Next up for Real Madrid is the quarter-final second leg of the Copa Del Rey against Girona on Thursday. Solari would love to see the same kind of intensity his players showed today.