Real Madrid, leading La Liga, faced frustration in a 1-1 draw against city rival Rayo Vallecano. Joselu's early goal was nullified by Raul de Tomas' penalty, adding intensity to the title race with Girona. Despite thrashing Girona 4-0 last week, Real Madrid stumbled at Vallecas, allowing Girona to potentially close in on the lead.
Carlo Ancelotti's side now stands at 62 points, six ahead of second-placed Girona, who has a game in hand against Athletic Bilbao on Monday. Barcelona trails as a distant third with 54 points, three ahead of fourth-placed Atletico Madrid.
Real Madrid took the lead through Joselu, capitalizing on a wasted opportunity by Rayo forward Raul de Tomas. However, a handball by Eduardo Camavinga led to Vallecano's equalizing penalty. Despite dominating possession with 65%, Real Madrid struggled to convert chances.
Wild celebrations ensued among Vallecas' crowd as the home team moved up to 16th place. Real Madrid, missing the injured Jude Bellingham, continued to dominate in the second half but squandered opportunities. The closest chance was a Toni Kroos free kick brilliantly saved by Stole Dimitrievski in the 80th minute.
In added time, the frustrated visitor was reduced to 10 men when substitute Dani Carvajal received two yellow cards in two minutes.
0 Comments