Real Madrid failed to seize the opportunity to take the top spot in La Liga for the first time this season. Playing away at the Vallecas Stadium, Carlo Ancelotti’s team managed only a disappointing 3-3 draw. After the match, one name emerged as the main scapegoat for this lacklustre result.
Without the injured Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid could only secure a 3-3 draw against Rayo Vallecano, who are having an impressive start to the season. Shocked by an early opener in the 3rd minute, the Madrid defence struggled. Fran Garcia, completely outpaced by a double feint from a Vallecano player, failed to block the cross that led to the first goal of the match. On an off night, the Madrid defence conceded again just after the half-hour mark. However, Valverde and Bellingham staged a comeback to level the score before halftime.
Back from the break, Rodrygo Goes scored a sensational goal to give Real Madrid the lead. Unfortunately, a defensive lapse by Aurélien Tchouaméni allowed Rayo Vallecano to equalise once again. Despite late substitutions, including Vinicius Junior and Endrick, the scoreline remained unchanged. Post-match, fans pointed fingers at Carlo Ancelotti as the primary cause of the disappointing result.
Carlo Ancelotti’s baffling starting XI
Known for his unpredictable tactical decisions, Carlo Ancelotti raised eyebrows once more on Saturday. Against all expectations, the Italian coach benched Vinicius Junior and started Rodrygo Goes instead. Adding to the surprise, Dani Ceballos, who has been delivering stellar performances lately, was also left out of the starting lineup. Another questionable decision was omitting Camavinga from the midfield, leaving the critical number 8 role unfilled.
Where criticism is most intense, however, is the decision to play Aurélien Tchouaméni as a central defender alongside Antonio Rudiger, rather than giving the young Raul Asensio another chance. Asensio had adequately replaced Eder Militao in previous matches, yet Ancelotti persisted with a midfielder in the backline.
On social media, fans have been vocal about the coach’s decisions, particularly given the defence’s poor display. While some refereeing mistakes have also been highlighted, it is clear that Real Madrid have only themselves to blame for letting this match slip away.
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