In a thrilling showdown that saw the balance of power shift in La Liga, Real Madrid claimed a 2-1 triumph against Rayo Vallecano, consequently surpassing Atletico Madrid in the standings. With this crucial win, Real Madrid rebounded from their recent defeat to Real Betis, putting them back on the winning track.
The Madrid-based giants had found their stride hindered, with just one victory in their previous four outings. This slump had seen them dropping to the third spot in the La Liga table, three points adrift of reigning leaders Barcelona. However, Atletico Madrid’s stumble against Getafe provided Real Madrid a golden opportunity to regain a superior position, and they didn’t disappoint.
In anticipation of their imminent Champions League face-off with Atletico Madrid, manager Ancelotti decided to rest key players such as Fede Valverde, Thibaut Courtois, and Antonio Rudiger. This was reportedly more of a strategic move than a reaction to injuries. Courtois’ absence was filled by Lunin, while Alaba and Asencio formed a formidable partnership at the center-back position.
The match also marked the return of Jude Bellingham, who had previously missed two La Liga matches due to suspension. He was the most forward of the midfield trio, with Tchouameni and Modric providing support from deeper positions. Rayo Vallecano, on the other hand, had to make do without several key players, including Jorge de Frutos and Isi Palazon, a significant blow to their creative force.
As the game commenced, Real Madrid’s dynamic forward trio of Rodrygo, Mbappe, and Vinicius Jr. immediately began causing chaos for Vallecano’s defenders. Within the first 15 minutes, Vallecano’s goalkeeper, Augusto Batalla, was forced to demonstrate his skills with a remarkable double save, first denying Vini’s low shot and then blocking the rebound from Mbappe.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 29th minute, with Mbappe finding the net after being set up by Vinicius Jr. The French star skillfully outmaneuvered his compatriot Florian Lejeune before launching the ball into the far bottom corner. Not to be outdone, Vini doubled Real Madrid’s lead five minutes later with an exceptional solo goal, dazzling Vallecano’s defenders before driving the ball into the middle of the net.
Rayo Vallecano also had some opportunities in the first half, with Ratiu and Embarba testing Lunin. Their efforts bore fruit in the stoppage time when Pedro Diaz’s powerful strike from the edge of the penalty area hit the crossbar and bounced into the goal.
The second half witnessed numerous chances for Real Madrid to seal the game, with Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. continuing to trouble the Vallecano defense, although they failed to convert these opportunities into goals. Despite this, Real Madrid confidently navigated their way to three points, with Vallecano posing little threat in the second half.
With this victory, Ancelotti’s men have overtaken Atletico Madrid to claim the second spot in La Liga. Their next challenge is a difficult away game against Villarreal, but before that, their attention will be squarely focused on the upcoming Champions League second leg against Atleti.