La Liga: Win over Sevilla sends Real four points clear at the top

Los Blancos emerge 2-1 victors in their game in hand to increase lead.

MADRID: Real Madrid moved four points clear at the top of La Liga as goals from James Rodriguez and Jese handed them a 2-1 win over Sevilla.

However, the European champions will be without Sergio Ramos and Rodriguez for Saturday’s crucial Madrid derby away to La Liga champions Atletico as they both limped off in the first-half. “Sergio had a hamstring problem, we need to wait a few days to evaluate it. James had a problem in his right foot, I don’t know exactly what but it is sure that they won’t be available,” said Real boss Carlo Ancelotti. “I have confidence in the others. Nacho and [Raphael] Varane did very well; I have a lot of confidence in them.”

Marcelo is also set to the miss the derby at the Vicente Calderon through suspension after picking up his fifth booking of the season in the second-half. However, Ancelotti is hopeful of having the Brazilian’s yellow card overturned. “We will appeal Marcelo’s yellow card because for me it wasn’t even a foul.”

Substitute Iago Aspas pulled a goal back for Sevilla late on, but defeat means their lead over Valencia in fourth remains at just a point. “It’s difficult, we played well and had chances, but it is always difficult here against Real Madrid,” said Sevilla boss Unai Emery. “The most important thing is that we competed for 90 minutes. We had the chances for something even more. We aren’t satisfied, but despite the defeat we did well in many phases.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 6^th, 2015.

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