Real Madrid survived a frantic and ill-tempered Madrid derby to beat Rayo Vallecano 2–1, in a match defined by late drama, long stoppage time, and a decisive night for Vinícius Júnior.
As many expected, Madrid took an early lead in the 15th minute, with Vinícius Jr. latching onto a loose ball inside the box and finishing with authority. Madrid controlled much of the first half, pressing high and forcing Rayo into fouls and rushed clearances. But, Rayo defensively kept them alive, as Madrid struggled to convert dominance into a second goal.
The second half became increasingly chaotic. Rayo with nothing to lose raised their physical intensity, disrupting Madrid’s rhythm with constant fouls and stoppages. Shortly after the break, Rayo equalised when Jorge de Frutos pounced on a headed assist from Álvaro García. At this point, it was any clubs match to win. Despite sustained pressure and multiple substitutions on both sides, Madrid couldn’t separate themselves even with many chances to convert inside the box. It was until the dying moments of this match, when a foul in the (90+13) provided Madrid with a penalty shot to win it from Mbappé.
Key Plays That Defined the Match
Early Lead — Vinícius Júnior (15’)
Vinícius curled a superb shot into the top corner to put Real Madrid ahead in the first half. It was the Brazilian’s first La Liga goal in several matches, ending a scoring drought in the league.
Rayo Equalizes — Jorge de Frutos (49’)
Shortly after the break, Rayo equalised when Jorge de Frutos pounced on a headed assist from Álvaro García and finished emphatically, giving the visitors momentum and belief in the contest.
Turning Point — Pathe Ciss Red Card (80’)
Rayo’s Pathé Ciss was sent off for a reckless challenge on Dani Ceballos, reducing the visitors to ten men and giving Real Madrid a numerical advantage down the stretch.
Dramatic Winner — Mbappé (90’+9′)
In the second minute of injury time beyond the nine minutes announced, Real Madrid won a penalty after Brahim Díaz was fouled in the box. Kylian Mbappé stepped up and converted, sealing a dramatic 2–1 victory.
Post-Match Takeaways
Madrid overcomes early setback
- Real Madrid lost Jude Bellingham to a hamstring injury early in the match, disrupting their midfield structure. The team nevertheless found a way back into the result.
Rayo resilient and Dangerous
- Rayo grew into the game in the bottom of the barrell in La Liga Standing. Their ability to come into Madrid and almost win or draw the match illustrates that everyone can be a threat.
Discipline proved costly for Rayo
- The red card to Pathe Ciss late in the second half swung the balance back toward Madrid in the closing stages.
Mbappé delivers when it matters most
- Though not among Real’s standout performers for much of the match, Mbappé’s penalty in the 100th minute won the game, underlining his importance and whose foot the ball will be in during these tight league battles.
Madrid still in title Race
This victory moved Real Madrid to just one point behind league leaders Barcelona, keeping them firmly in contention as the La Liga campaign progresses.
