'Modric a gift for football' - Ancelotti champions Madrid midfielder after Minera goal

Carlo Ancelotti saluted Luka Modric as "a gift for football" after the veteran midfielder was on target in Real Madrid's Copa del Rey win over Deportiva Minera.

Modric scored the fourth goal with a lovely curled finish as Los Blancos ran out commanding 5-0 winners over their fourth-tier opponents to book their place in the last 16.

The 39-year-old was making only his 11th start from 26 appearances across all competitions this season.

Nevertheless, his impact and professionalism did not go unnoticed by Ancelotti.

"[Luka] is a gift for football and even more for those who can enjoy it up close," the Madrid boss said. "The fans, the players, the coach... for me, it's a great gift.

"The way he prepares for this kind of match - as if it was a final. It's a very important example for our youngsters.

@LukaModric10#LaCopaMola pic.twitter.com/c6gNx3u1Ou

— Real Madrid C.F.(@realmadriden) January 6, 2025

"The atmosphere was really good for the players. They stayed with the fans to sign shirts and that made it a fantastic match."

Modric's midfield partner Federico Valverde broke the deadlock at Estadio Municipal Cartagonova with his seventh goal of the campaign in all competitions.

The Uruguay international netted after just four minutes and 46 seconds, making it the fastest goal scored in this season's Copa del Rey.

"I'm happy to contribute goals to the team, but my task is different: to help in the best possible way, defending and helping out," Valverde said.

"I'm glad that the coach keeps taking me into account in every game, that he has confidence in me and, even if I'm tired, I'm always happy."