Real Madrid squandered two crucial points on Sunday against Elche, battling back from behind multiple times in a gripping encounter that ended in a 2-2 stalemate. The team managed by Xabi Alonso left Elche feeling frustrated after a match where they had to fight hard to salvage a point late in the game. As the leaders heading into this 13th round of La Liga fixtures, the Merengues aimed to extend their lead over Barcelona, who had won against Athletic Bilbao the previous day. Despite retaining their position at the top, they failed to increase their advantage.
Elche stunned the visitors by taking the lead shortly after the second half commenced. In the 53rd minute, Aleix Febas capitalized on a poorly cleared ball, finding the net past goalkeeper Andriy Lunin and igniting the home crowd’s hopes. Real Madrid responded in dramatic fashion towards the end of the match when Dean Huijsen equalized in the 78th minute, sending a wave of relief through the visiting supporters. However, that joy was short-lived as Alvaro Rodríguez quickly restored Elche’s advantage just three minutes later, making it 2-1.
Late Drama and Bellingham’s Impact
The match reached its climax in the closing moments when Jude Bellingham struck back for Real Madrid in the 87th minute, equalizing once again with a well-placed assist from Kylian Mbappé. This vital goal ensured that Los Blancos would leave with at least one point, keeping them a single point ahead of Barcelona in the league standings. Villarreal currently sits third in the table, further tightening the title race as teams vie for supremacy.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming fixtures promise to be crucial for Real Madrid as they prepare for another away match against Girona on Sunday, October 30. Meanwhile, Barcelona will host Deportivo Alavés the day before and could temporarily seize first place with a victory. The intensity of La Liga is palpable as every point becomes increasingly significant in this tightly contested season.
This draw has raised questions about Real Madrid’s consistency and ability to maintain their lead. With only one point separating them from their fierce rivals, can they find their rhythm again? The title race is far from over.
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