Real Madrid missed the opportunity to overtake Barcelona at the top of LaLiga after a dramatic 3-3 draw against local rivals Rayo Vallecano at the Estadio de Vallecas on Sunday. Despite a spirited comeback from two goals down, Los Blancos were undone by defensive lapses, leaving them frustrated as they prepare to head to Qatar for the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
This high-stakes encounter was packed with drama, goals, and standout moments, showcasing why Vallecas continues to be a tricky venue for the reigning champions.
Rayo Vallecano Shock Real Madrid with Early Goals
Rayo Vallecano made a dream start, stunning their more illustrious neighbors by racing into a 2-0 lead within the first 36 minutes. Unai López opened the scoring in the 4th minute with a precise header, capitalizing on a defensive mix-up in Madrid’s backline. The hosts doubled their advantage when Abdul Mumin rose highest to nod in a pinpoint corner from Isi Palazón, leaving the visitors reeling.
Real Madrid Stage a Comeback
Carlo Ancelotti’s men found a way back into the game just three minutes later, courtesy of a sensational long-range strike from Federico Valverde. The Uruguayan midfielder unleashed a thunderous effort from outside the box, giving Rayo goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski no chance.
Jude Bellingham, Madrid’s standout performer this season, continued his scoring streak with a composed first-time finish just before halftime. Assisted by the ever-impressive Arda Güler, Bellingham’s equalizer not only brought Madrid back on level terms but also shifted the momentum in their favor heading into the second half.
Rodrygo Puts Madrid Ahead, but Palazón Denies Victory
In the 56th minute, Real Madrid took the lead for the first time. Rodrygo fired a deflected strike from the edge of the box, completing a remarkable comeback and seemingly setting Los Blancos on course for a much-needed win. The assist once again came from Güler, who at 19 years and 293 days, became the youngest Real Madrid player this century to register multiple assists in a single LaLiga game.
However, Madrid’s joy was short-lived. Isi Palazón, Rayo Vallecano’s talisman, added a goal to his earlier assist in the 72nd minute. Palazón skillfully positioned himself between Antonio Rüdiger and Aurélien Tchouaméni to redirect a cross into the net, leveling the score and securing a valuable point for the hosts.
Defensive Woes Haunt Real Madrid
Real Madrid’s defensive frailties were exposed once again, with costly mistakes contributing to all three of Rayo’s goals. The reigning champions have now dropped points in four of their last five visits to Vallecas (one win, two draws, and two losses), making Rayo Vallecano something of a bogey side for Los Blancos.
This draw marks the first time Real Madrid have failed to win on three consecutive trips to Vallecas (two draws, one loss), raising concerns ahead of their next LaLiga fixtures.
LaLiga Table: Madrid Fall Behind Barcelona
The result leaves Real Madrid second in the LaLiga standings with 27 points, level on games played with Barcelona. The Blaugrana now have the chance to extend their lead at the top of the table to four points when they host Leganés on Sunday.
Key Performances and Records
Arda Güler: The Turkish international played a pivotal role in Madrid’s comeback, registering two assists and becoming the youngest Real Madrid player to achieve this feat in a single LaLiga game this century.
Isi Palazón: Rayo’s star man delivered a goal and an assist, ensuring his side claimed a hard-earned point against the champions.
Federico Valverde: His spectacular long-range goal brought Madrid back into the game and showcased his ability to deliver under pressure.
Jude Bellingham: The English midfielder continued his incredible debut LaLiga season, adding another goal to his tally and dominating the midfield battle.
Looking Ahead
Real Madrid now shift their focus to the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, where they face Mexican side Pachuca on Wednesday. Carlo Ancelotti will need to address his team’s defensive issues quickly as they return to LaLiga action against Sevilla next weekend.
Meanwhile, Rayo Vallecano can take confidence from this result as they aim to climb further up the table. Andoni Iraola’s side, currently 13th, will look to build on this momentum in their next fixture against Villarreal.