Real won their second consecutive match without Ronaldo.

Coach Ancelotti's team just defeated Sevilla 2-1 in a rescheduled La Liga match, extending their lead over Barca to four points.

James Rodriguez continued to demonstrate his decisive role with the opening goal. Photo: Reuters

Following their 4-1 victory over Sociedad last weekend, Real Madrid secured another three points without Ronaldo, who was serving the remainder of his two-match suspension, by beating Sevilla 2-1. The absence of the world's best player once again provided a good opportunity for young players to shine, with James Rodriguez and Jese Rodriguez being the standout performers, scoring two consecutive goals in the first half. Sevilla only managed to pull one back through Iago Aspas in the 80th minute.

Sevilla's narrow defeat at the Bernabeu was also partly due to bad luck. In the first half, Unai Emery's side played much better, creating three chances against goalkeeper Iker Casillas. After the break, Iborra missed another similar opportunity before Aspas reduced the deficit to 1-2.

Real Madrid's defense in this match was not as good as in their games at the end of 2014. Sevilla created a one-on-one opportunity with goalkeeper Casillas in the third minute, and the score could have been opened earlier if Vitolo had been more clinical with his finishing. The home team's defense was further weakened when they were reduced to ten men in the ninth minute. Center-back Sergio Ramos suffered a hamstring injury and had to leave the field early.

Real Madrid only surpassed Sevilla in terms of finishing ability in this match. This was clearly demonstrated when James Rodriguez headed in the opening goal in the 12th minute and Jese Rodriguez doubled the lead with a volley in the 36th minute. In both instances, Sevilla's defense was largely unable to react to the rapid developments.

Real Madrid's attack remains effective even without Ronaldo.

Bad luck not only plagued goalkeeper Beto, forcing him to pick the ball out of his net in the first half, but also haunted the forwards. Iborra dribbled past Iker Casillas before his shot hit the post. Krychowiak fared no better, heading wide from an open position inside the Real Madrid penalty area.

After the break, Sevilla continued to control possession. In contrast, Real played effectively on the counter-attack and created many opportunities. Gareth Bale nearly scored after a solo run, and Jese had a shot that hit the post. Isco also had a dangerous shot that forced Sergio Rico, the goalkeeper who came on to replace Beto after he suffered an injury in the first half, to make a spectacular save.

In the latter half of the second half, Sevilla dominated possession. Their efforts to find an equalizer brought them close to Real's 5.5-meter box, creating several clear chances. Iborra could have reduced the deficit early on, missing the target from just a few meters out in a one-on-one situation. It wasn't until the 80th minute that Aspas finally capitalized on their advantage, scoring with a tap-in after a perfect dribble by Vitolo.

Having won their rescheduled match, Real Madrid now have 54 points after 21 rounds of La Liga. Barca are second with 50 points, while Atletico Madrid are third with three points less. This weekend, Atletico will host Real Madrid in the Madrid derby.

Result:Real Madrid 2-1 Sevilla

Goal:James Rodriguez 12', Jese 36' - Aspas 80'

According to VNE