Mbappé’s Last-Gasp Penalty Saves Real Madrid in Dramatic Rayo Vallecano Clash

 



Real Madrid kept their La Liga title ambitions firmly alive with a dramatic 2–1 victory over Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabéu, thanks to a stoppage-time penalty from Kylian Mbappé in an emotionally charged encounter.

Match Overview

The hosts started brightly and were rewarded in the opening half when Vinícius Júnior broke the deadlock, capitalising on sustained pressure to put Carlo Ancelotti’s side ahead. However, despite dominating possession, Real Madrid failed to convert several clear chances, allowing Rayo Vallecano to stay in the contest.

Rayo emerged strongly after the break and found a deserved equaliser through Jorge de Frutos, silencing the Bernabéu and shifting momentum in favour of the visitors.

Late Drama and Red Cards

The match took a dramatic turn in the closing stages as Rayo Vallecano were reduced to nine men following two red cards, forcing them into deep defensive mode. Real Madrid pushed relentlessly but struggled to break down Rayo’s resistance.

Deep into stoppage time, the breakthrough finally came. Kylian Mbappé calmly converted a penalty in the 100th minute, sending the home fans into celebration and securing three crucial points.

Key Talking Points

Mbappé’s composure under pressure once again proved decisive in a high-stakes moment.

Jude Bellingham’s early injury exit raised concerns ahead of Madrid’s upcoming fixtures.

 Despite the win, missed chances and defensive lapses highlighted areas for improvement for Los Blancos.

Title Race Implications

The victory keeps Real Madrid firmly in the La Liga title hunt, narrowing the gap to league leaders Barcelona and maintaining pressure at the top of the table as the season enters a critical phase.

While not their most convincing performance, Real Madrid showed resilience and championship mentality when it mattered most. Mbappé’s late heroics ensured the night ended in triumph, but Ancelotti will demand greater control and efficiency as the title race intensifies.




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