La Liga: Madrid held back by “volcanic” Vallecano

The Madrid giant was held back on Sunday night following a late first half penalty from De Tomas to reduce their lead over second placed Girona by six points.

Rayo Vallecano managed to salvage their first home point in 2024, thanks to a crucial penalty from Raúl de Tomás, as they fought back from an early deficit to draw 1-1 with La Liga’s current leaders, Real Madrid, at the Campo de Futbol de Vallecas.

Rayo suffered an early setback just three minutes into the game after a quick counter from Real saw Joselu convert Federico Valverde’s low cross for his thirteenth of the season.

Joselu's 13th goal of the season gives Real Madrid an early lead over Rayo Vallecano — shades of Jude Bellingham in his celebration…#RMCF pic.twitter.com/dBSruGJJXL

— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) February 18, 2024

A few minutes later, it looked as though the Spaniard had given Los Blancos a two goal lead, but the header was waved off when it was determined that the ball had left the play during the buildup.

But the home team steadily gained ground and eventually reaped the rewards of their efforts when they were granted a penalty, which De Tomás skillfully scored to tie the game.

The second half started cautiously, with Real Madrid continually posing threats and showing why they are the league’s current leaders.

Despite their efforts, Carlo Ancelotti’s men failed to capitalize on their chances, and frustration mounted as they ended the game with ten men following a late red card for Carvajal.

Rayo’s performance against their city rivals provided a much-needed morale boost, as they moved to 14th on the log, while Real Madrid’s title chase suffered a minor setback, as they missed the chance to increase their lead over second-placed Girona to eight points.