On Sunday, Real Madrid defeated Rayo Vallecano 2-1 thanks to a stoppage-time penalty from Kylian Mbappe. This valiant triumph kept Alvaro Arbeloa’s team one point behind La Liga champions Barcelona.

At the Santiago Bernabeu, Los Blancos were far from convincing and forced to fight for three points that seemed improbable for extended periods of time, particularly after Jude Bellingham had to go early due to a hamstring issue.

Ilias Akhomach wasted a golden opportunity in the box, and Madrid started slowly and were lucky not to fall behind in the first five minutes.

Shortly after, Bellingham was replaced due to what appeared to be a hamstring injury, which further complicated the home team’s issues and clouded the victory.

Madrid eventually took the lead despite the rough beginning. With a brilliant moment, Vinicius Junior broke the impasse by cutting inside and curling a flawless finish into the upper-right corner.

There were more opportunities, including a low cut-back by Mbappe that just missed a teammate and a wide shot by Brahim Díaz, but Madrid had a slender lead at halftime.

After the restart, Rayo Vallecano penalised Madrid for their lack of control. Jorge de Frutos tied the score by finishing neatly past Thibaut Courtois after going in front of Aurěen Tchouaméni.

Soon after, the visitors threatened to advance, but Courtois rejected Andrei Raúliu in a one-on-one.

When Mbappe rounded the goalkeeper, he had a fantastic chance to put Madrid back ahead, but his shot hit the crossbar.

As the home crowd became increasingly irate, Eduardo Camavinga also came close, heading against the outside of the post. Finally, deep into stoppage time, Madrid made a breakthrough.

Nobel Mendy’s awkward challenge gave the hosts a penalty in the 98th minute after nine minutes had been added.

On a challenging night, Mbappe stepped up and easily converted, completing a remarkable reversal and saving Madrid’s blushes.

Kindly Share

Related Video