Jude Bellingham
Missed Chance Keeps Los Blancos One Point Behind Barcelona
Real Madrid’s hopes of topping the La Liga table were dashed in a dramatic 3-3 draw against local rivals Rayo Vallecano at the Estadio de Vallecas on Saturday. Despite a spirited comeback, Isi Palazón’s late intervention denied Los Blancos a crucial victory.
Early Rayo Dominance
Rayo Vallecano stunned Real Madrid with a fourth-minute opener from Unai López. Jorge de Frutos delivered a pinpoint cross, leaving López unmarked to head past Thibaut Courtois. The home side doubled their lead in the 36th minute when Isi Palazón’s corner found Abdul Mumin, who nodded the ball into the net, leaving Madrid with a mountain to climb.
Madrid’s Resurgence
Federico Valverde reignited Madrid’s hopes three minutes later with a spectacular 30-yard strike into the bottom corner. Just before halftime, Jude Bellingham equalized by directing Rodrygo’s cross into the bottom right corner, setting the stage for a gripping second half.
Rodrygo appeared to complete Madrid’s comeback with a stunning strike into the top corner, giving Los Blancos a 3-2 lead. However, the resilient Rayo side leveled the game when Palazón got a vital touch on Florian Lejeune’s delivery, sending it past Courtois.
Late Drama and Missed Opportunities
Both teams had chances to secure a winner in the closing moments. Courtois made a spectacular save from Lejeune’s free-kick, ensuring the points were shared in an exhilarating encounter.
What’s Next
Real Madrid now sits one point behind La Liga leaders Barcelona, who play Leganés on Sunday. Atletico Madrid, also in action tomorrow, have a chance to tighten the race at the top.
Next for Real Madrid is a trip to Qatar for the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final against Pachuca on December 18, followed by a La Liga clash with Sevilla on December 22. Meanwhile, Rayo Vallecano prepares for away fixtures against Villarreal and Real Betis before the holiday break.
Analysis
Carlo Ancelotti’s side will be disappointed by their inability to dominate a Rayo side that had only one win in their last four matches. Despite moments of brilliance from Valverde, Bellingham, and Rodrygo, Madrid’s defensive frailties were exposed, keeping the title race wide open.
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