Real Madrid moved level on points with Barcelona at the top of La Liga after securing a 2-1 victory over a spirited Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabeu. Despite the win, it was not a convincing performance from Carlo Ancelotti’s side, who fielded several key players despite their upcoming Champions League round of 16 second leg against Atletico Madrid.
The hosts started brightly, with Vinicius Junior hitting the post early on. The breakthrough came courtesy of Kylian Mbappe, who scored his 18th goal of the season. The French forward showcased his trademark movement and skill, cutting inside onto his right foot before firing a low shot into the far corner past Rayo goalkeeper Augusto Batalla.
Vinicius then stole the spotlight with a stunning individual effort. After dazzling Florian Lejeune near the corner flag, the Brazilian’s deflected shot found the back of the net, doubling Madrid’s lead. However, Rayo responded before halftime with a spectacular strike from Pedro Diaz, who rifled a shot off the underside of the crossbar, leaving Andriy Lunin with no chance.
Madrid’s intensity dropped in the second half as Rayo pressed aggressively, but the hosts still had chances to extend their lead. Both Mbappe and Vinicius missed opportunities, with the latter failing to convert from close range after a brilliant setup by Luka Modric. Despite the missed chances, Madrid held on to secure the win, moving level with Barcelona and above Atletico Madrid, who suffered a defeat to Getafe earlier in the day.
Player Ratings (Real Madrid)
Ratings provided by FotMob
| Position / Player | Rating |
|---|---|
| GK: Andriy Lunin | 7.2/10 |
| RB: Lucas Vazquez | 6.7/10 |
| CB: Raul Asencio | 6.5/10 |
| CB: David Alaba | 7.0/10 |
| LB: Fran Garcia | 7.7/10 |
| RM: Rodrygo | 7.0/10 |
| CM: Aurelien Tchouameni | 7.9/10 |
| CM: Luka Modric (c) | 8.5/10 |
| LM: Jude Bellingham | 7.5/10 |
| CF: Vinicius Junior | 8.2/10 |
| CF: Kylian Mbappe | 7.9/10 |
| SUB: Federico Valverde (68′) | 6.2/10 |
| SUB: Eduardo Camavinga (79′) | 5.9/10 |
| SUB: Brahim Diaz (86′) | N/A |
Subs not used: Fran Gonzalez (GK), Sergio Mestre (GK), Ferland Mendy, Arda Guler, Endrick.
Player Ratings (Rayo Vallecano)
Ratings provided by FotMob
| Position / Player | Rating |
|---|---|
| GK: Augusto Batalla | 6.6/10 |
| RB: Andrei Ratiu | 5.9/10 |
| CB: Florian Lejeune | 6.3/10 |
| CB: Aridane Hernandez | 6.2/10 |
| LB: Alfonso Espino | 6.8/10 |
| DM: Pathe Ciss | 6.1/10 |
| RM: Adrian Embarba | 6.5/10 |
| CM: Pedro Diaz | 7.1/10 |
| CM: Gerard Gumbau | 5.5/10 |
| LM: Pep Chavarria | 6.6/10 |
| CF: Alvaro Garcia | 7.5/10 |
| SUB: Oscar Trejo (70′) | 6.6/10 |
| SUB: Ivan Balliu (70′) | 6.3/10 |
| SUB: Oscar Valentin (70′) | 6.1/10 |
| SUB: Unai Lopez (85′) | N/A |
| SUB: Sergi Guardiola (85′) | N/A |
Subs not used: Dani Cardenas (GK), Pelayo Fernandez, Marco de las Sias, Eteinne Eto’o Pineda.
Player of the Match: Luka Modric (Real Madrid)
The 39-year-old midfielder once again proved his class, dictating the tempo and creating chances for his teammates. His leadership and composure were instrumental in Madrid’s victory.
