Real Madrid's Late Goal Secures Victory against Alavés, leading La Liga over Christmas Break
Real Madrid secures thrilling 10-man victory with injury-time winner against Alavés, propelling them to the top of La Liga for the Christmas break
In the 92nd minute, Lucas Vázquez scored the winning goal, securing a vital three points for the 10-man Real Madrid against Alavés and propelling them to the top of La Liga before the Christmas break. Despite Girona's draw with Real Sociedad, Real Madrid had the opportunity to reclaim the top spot, but Carlo Ancelotti's team struggled against a strong and well-organized Alavés for most of the match.
When defender Nacho was given a straight red card for a late stamp on Samuel Omorodion's heel, Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti faced an even tougher task. In response, he substituted in midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni and deployed him as a makeshift center back.
Jude Bellingham celebrates after scoring a match-winning goal.
Diego Souto/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images
Real Madrid has developed an affinity for a 20-year-old Englishman, despite being at a numerical disadvantage. In a surprising turn, Real managed to secure a late victory as Vázquez, one of the smallest players on the field, scored a header from a corner with no one marking him.
After scoring the winning goal, the reaction from Alavés head coach Luis GarcÃa was both furious and hilarious. He went on a 30-second rampage, kicking water bottles, flipping the water cooler, grabbing a member of the coaching staff by the shoulders, and then kicking the floor of the dugout in frustration.
"We definitely leave this match with a very good feeling," said match winner Vázquez, according to Real Madrid. "It was a challenging game and after the sending off, we knew how to persevere. We hung in there until the end and we got the reward that we deserved."
"We never doubted our pursuit of victory, even when playing with a man down. The team maintained their high level of play throughout, which is a cause for celebration. Despite the early setback, the team rallied to defend and attack effectively without faltering.
"It's crucial for us to go into the break with the lead. We aim to continue our successful streak in 2024, fueled by a positive atmosphere and momentum. Our goal is to keep improving."
Nacho was shown a deserved straight red early in the second half.
Diego Souto/Getty Images
Real Madrids unbeaten run now stands at 17 games as the team continues to gradually improve after a sluggish start to the season.
Barcelona is currently seven points behind in third place, making Real the top contender for their third La Liga title in four years. Despite this, Real is not underestimating the challenge from surprise package Girona. The Catalan club has proven in 18 matches that their impressive run is no fluke and they are deserving contenders for the top spot.
When the teams return to action on January 3, Real welcomes Real Mallorca while Girona has a real test of its title credentials at home to Atlético Madrid.
