Luka Modric provided yet another moment of magic to reignite the tie after Real Madrid wasted a 3-1 lead against Chelsea inside 75 minutes. Modric’s assist to Rodrygo levelled the aggregate score before Karim Benzema’s strike in extra time cut short the campaign of the defending champion.

A goal each from Mason Mount, Antonio Rudiger, and Timo Werner had put Chelsea on the brink of a dramatic comeback. Chelsea, however, couldn’t hold on to the lead for long, as an exquisite intervention from Modric was met by a very precise shot from the substitute Rodrygo.

While Thomas Tuchel’s team dominated the game, outclassing their opponents in almost every area, it was not enough to sink Real Madrid. So often these high-stakes fixtures are decided by individual brilliance, and this is where Chelsea fell massively short of their opponents.

At 36, Modric is still operating at the upper end of excellence, controlling the midfield with such flair and flamboyance, that it looks like he is immune to the normal rule of ageing.

‘Outside of the boot’ passes that he attempts so often in the game, are a thing of utmost beauty, and he rarely gets it wrong.

Alessandro Del Piero, who was present there to do commentary for Sky Sports Italia, greeted Luka Modric after the game.

“Modric did everything. Tonight was unique and strange. Chelsea seemed in control, but then it changed again and we had the feeling that the game could go to a penalty shootout. It was an incredible game,” said Peiro.

He was also adjudged as Player of the Match for his overall performance that helped Real Madrid advance to the next round.