Mbappé’s late penalty seals win for Real Madrid over Rayo Vallecano
Nobel Mendy’s foul on Brahim Díaz in the 98th minute handed Mbappé the decisive opportunity from the spot, which he calmly converted to move Real to within one point of Barcelona in the La Liga title race.
Mbappé’s late penalty seals win for Real Madrid over Rayo Vallecano
Nobel Mendy’s foul on Brahim Díaz in the 98th minute handed Mbappé the decisive opportunity from the spot, which he calmly converted to move Real to within one point of Barcelona in the La Liga title race.
According to the BBC, Vinícius Júnior had earlier given Real Madrid the lead, scoring shortly after Jude Bellingham was forced off with what appeared to be a hamstring injury. Rayo Vallecano responded well and drew level just after half-time through Jorge de Frutos. Real pushed for a winner, with Mbappé and Eduardo Camavinga both striking the woodwork. Rayo’s resistance weakened late on when Pathe Ciss was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Dani Ceballos with 10 minutes of normal time remaining.
As frustration grew among the home supporters, Mbappé’s late penalty finally settled the contest. There was still time for further drama, with Pep Chavarría sent off after receiving a second yellow card deep into stoppage time in the 103rd minute.
