A. Rahman
Real Madrid secured a memorable 2-1 La Liga victory over Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, thanks to a late penalty converted by Kylian Mbappé deep into added time at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. The result keeps Real Madrid close to the top of the Spanish league standings and delivered a dramatic finish that had fans cheering long after the final whistle.
Vinícius Júnior gave Real Madrid the lead early in the match with a brilliant solo effort, finishing a slick attacking move in the first half. Rayo Vallecano fought back after the break, with Jorge de Frutos equalizing in the 48th minute to make it 1-1 and inject fresh tension into the contest.
The game turned in Real Madrid’s favor shortly after Rayo were reduced to nine men. Pathe Ciss received a straight red card late in the second half, and Pep Chavarria was also dismissed for a second bookable offense during added time.
In what proved to be a pivotal moment of the match, referee awarded Real Madrid a penalty deep into stoppage time after Brahim Díaz was fouled in the box by Nobel Mendy. Mbappé stepped up to coolly slot home the decisive spot-kick, securing all three points for Los Blancos and calming a tense Santiago Bernabéu crowd.
Fede Valverde, Real Madrid’s captain for the day, acknowledged the significance of the late win after the game. He described it as a key moment for the team’s confidence, especially coming after a challenging Champions League defeat earlier in the week. Valverde praised the squad’s effort and the contribution of substitutes who helped shift momentum in Real Madrid’s favor.
The victory brings Real Madrid within one point of leaders Barcelona in the La Liga table, increasing the pressure at the top of the title race as the season heads into its crucial phase. Rayo Vallecano, for their part, can take pride in a spirited performance but will be disappointed to leave with no points after pushing their illustrious opponents so close.
Summary: In a dramatic La Liga match, Real Madrid beat Rayo Vallecano 2-1 with a stoppage-time penalty by Kylian Mbappé. Vinícius Júnior scored early, Jorge de Frutos equalized for Rayo, and Real Madrid took all three points despite Rayo finishing with nine men. Fede Valverde called the win an important boost for the team.
