Rodrygo scored twice in Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Athletic Bilbao that puts them eight points cler at the top of La Liga
Rodrygo double restores Real Madrid’s eight-point lead at top of La Liga
Rodrygo netted a goal in each half as Real Madrid secured a 2-0 home win against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday, cementing their position at the top of the La Liga table.
The Brazilian broke the deadlock after eight minutes, calmly curling the ball into the far corner after a composed run to the edge of the box, as the Bilbao defence failed to close down the winger down.
The hosts pushed for a second with Toni Kroos’s deflected strike claimed by Julen Agirrezabala and Aurelien Tchouameni heading just wide from a corner.
The visitors had a golden chance to equalise early in the second half but Inaki Williams’ effort was palmed away by Andriy Lunin.
In the 73rd minute, Rodrygo was played free on the wing by Jude Bellingham on a counterattack, giving him time and space to run into the box and guide the ball into the bottom corner to make it 2-0.
Athletic had further chances but Madrid held firm and had the bonus of defender Eder Militao making his first appearance in seven months when coming off the bench in stoppage time.
Real have 75 points, eight ahead of Barcelona in second and 10 clear of third-placed Girona. Bilbao are fourth with 56 points.