Kylian Mbappé converted a penalty in the 100th minute to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory for Real Madrid over Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday, reducing Barcelona's lead at the top of La Liga to just one point. The French striker's 22nd league goal of the season came deep into stoppage time after Nobel Mendy clumsily fouled Brahim Díaz inside the penalty area, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
The match began disastrously for Real Madrid when Jude Bellingham pulled up holding the back of his thigh in the early stages and departed in apparent distress with what appeared to be a hamstring injury. The England international's departure cast a shadow over proceedings and will be a major concern for manager Carlo Ancelotti ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures.
Despite the setback, Vinícius Júnior ended a La Liga goal drought stretching back to October 4 with a stunning 15th-minute opener. The Brazilian winger twisted his way into the Rayo box before lofting the ball over goalkeeper Augusto Batalla and finding the top corner of the net from 16 yards. It was a moment of individual brilliance that seemed to put Real Madrid on course for a comfortable victory.
However, Rayo Vallecano equalized four minutes into the second half when Álvaro García nodded a cross down for Jorge de Frutos, a former Real Madrid youth player, to drill home from close range. The visitors' celebrations were passionate as they sensed an upset against their illustrious neighbors in the Madrid derby.
The match descended into chaos in the final minutes as Rayo finished with nine men. Pathé Ciss was shown a straight red card in the 80th minute for a reckless challenge on Dani Ceballos, and Pep Chavarría received a second yellow card in the dying seconds for pushing Rodrygo Goes to the ground. Despite their numerical disadvantage, Rayo defended desperately to try and secure a point.
Just when it seemed Real Madrid would drop crucial points in the title race, Mendy's wild kick in a crowded box felled Díaz, and referee awarded the late penalty. Mbappé stepped up to calmly dispatch the spot-kick, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and sparking scenes of relief rather than jubilation at the Bernabéu. The victory maintains Real Madrid's title challenge, though concerns over Bellingham's fitness will dominate the headlines.
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