La Liga leaders Real Madrid pulled off a remarkable late victory against underdog Deportivo Alavés in a thrilling encounter at the Mendizorroza Stadium on Thursday night. Despite playing with one man down for almost half the game, Los Blancos struck gold in stoppage time through a powerful header from defender Lucas Vázquez, securing a crucial 1-0 win that keeps them atop the table on goal difference.
The drama unfolded early in the second half when veteran defender Nacho Fernández saw red for a reckless tackle, leaving Real Madrid with 10 men for the remaining 45 minutes. This unexpected setback could have easily derailed their title charge, but instead, it seemed to spark a newfound determination in the Madrid ranks.
Real Madrid, spurred on by the adversity, began to dominate possession and press relentlessly for an opening. Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo Goes threatened the Alaves goal on several occasions, but their efforts were thwarted by the home side’s resolute defending.
Just when it seemed like the game was destined for a frustrating draw, Toni Kroos whipped in a pinpoint corner in the final minute of added time. The towering figure of Lucas Vázquez rose above the Alaves defense and met the ball with a thunderous header, sending it flying past Antonio Sivera into the back of the net.
The Mendizorroza erupted in a mixture of disbelief and despair as Alaves, who had valiantly held on for so long, saw their hopes of a famous upset snatched away in the cruellest of manners. For Real Madrid, however, the late winner was a moment of pure elation and relief. This dramatic victory showcased the unwavering spirit of Carlo Ancelotti’s men, who refused to be cowed by adversity and fought until the very last whistle.
The win was particularly significant for Lucas Vázquez, who has often been overshadowed by more glamorous teammates. His late heroics not only secured three crucial points for Real Madrid but also served as a personal vindication for his dedication and commitment to the team.
Key Takeaways:
- Real Madrid’s resilience and determination were on full display as they overcame the setback of Nacho’s red card to secure a vital victory.
- Lucas Vázquez’s late header was a moment of pure magic and redemption for the veteran defender.
- The win keeps Real Madrid top of La Liga on goal difference, putting them in a strong position to challenge for the title.
Looking Ahead:
This dramatic victory will undoubtedly inject a dose of confidence into Real Madrid as they head into the second half of the season. However, they face a grueling schedule with crucial matches against Barcelona and Atlético Madrid on the horizon. Alaves, on the other hand, will be hoping to bounce back from this disappointment and focus on securing their La Liga status. The fight for the La Liga title is shaping up to be a nail-biting affair, and this late-game drama at the Mendizorroza is just a glimpse of the excitement that awaits us in the months to come.