Real Madrid missed a golden opportunity to climb to the top of La Liga after a thrilling 3-3 draw against local rivals Rayo Vallecano on Saturday. The match at Vallecas Stadium was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams showcasing attacking flair and defensive lapses.
Rayo Vallecano stunned the visitors by taking an early 2-0 lead, capitalizing on Real Madrid’s defensive errors. However, Los Blancos fought back fiercely. Federico Valverde ignited the comeback with a powerful long-range strike that found the back of the net. Moments before halftime, Jude Bellingham continued his sensational form, netting his seventh goal in eight games after a slick assist from Rodrygo, leveling the score at 2-2.
The momentum seemed to favor Real Madrid as Rodrygo put them ahead in the 56th minute with a deflected shot from the edge of the area. But Rayo Vallecano was not done yet. Isi Palazón showcased brilliant individual skill, weaving past Antonio Rüdiger and Aurélien Tchouaméni to divert a cross into the net, leveling the match once again.
Despite late efforts from both sides, neither could find a winner. The draw leaves Carlo Ancelotti’s men in second place with 37 points from 17 matches, trailing arch-rivals Barcelona by just one point at the top of the table. Rayo Vallecano remain 13th, with 20 points to their name.
The result adds pressure on Real Madrid as they continue their quest to reclaim the La Liga title. Fans will hope the team can tighten up defensively and capitalize on future opportunities to overtake Barcelona.
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Real Madrid misses chance to go top of La Liga after Rayo thriller
cgtn.com
