Real Madrid missed a key opportunity to reclaim the top spot in the 2024-25 La Liga standings after being held to a 3-3 draw against Rayo Vallecano. Defensive lapses proved costly for Carlo Ancelotti’s men as they surrendered a two-goal lead, while Barcelona remains one point ahead with a game in hand.
Key Moments:
- Early Defensive Error:
- Unai López opened the scoring for Rayo in the 4th minute after a counter-attack.
- Jorge de Frutos’ cross left López unmarked, and his header beat Thibaut Courtois.
- Set-Piece Woes:
- Rayo doubled the lead in the 36th minute as Abdul Mumin capitalized on poor marking from Lucas Vázquez, scoring a header from a corner.
- Real’s Fightback:
- Federico Valverde sparked hope with a stunning long-range goal just three minutes later.
- Jude Bellingham then leveled the score before halftime, assisted by Rodrygo.
- Rodrygo’s Moment:
- In the 56th minute, Rodrygo gave Real Madrid the lead with a deflected strike from the edge of the box.
- Late Drama:
- Isi Palazón shocked Real by equalizing in the 82nd minute, sneaking between defenders Antonio Rüdiger and Aurélien Tchouaméni.
- Despite chances from Vinícius Jr., Endrick, and a missed opportunity by Rüdiger, Real failed to find a winner.
Standings Update:
- Real Madrid sits in second place with 37 points from 17 games, trailing Barcelona (38 points) with a game in hand.
- Atletico Madrid follows closely in third place with 35 points from 16 games.
- Rayo Vallecano is 13th with 20 points.
Real Madrid’s defensive frailties and missed opportunities could prove pivotal in this tight title race. Ancelotti’s decision to rest Vinícius Jr. from the start, alongside the absence of Kylian Mbappé, underscored the team’s struggles despite its attacking firepower.
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