Rabat – Real Madrid earned a dramatic 2-1 win over Rayo Vallecano in La Liga’s 22nd round, with Moroccan international Brahim Diaz playing a decisive role.
The match, held today, was full of tension and late drama, keeping fans on edge until the final whistle.
Diaz started the game on the bench but was called into action early after Jude Bellingham picked up an injury in the 10th minute.
His influence was immediate. Just five minutes after coming on, Diaz delivered a clever assist to Vinicius Junior, who opened the scoring with a composed finish. That early breakthrough gave Madrid control, but Rayo Vallecano refused to back down.
In the second half, Rayo found their equalizer through Jorge de Frutos in the 49th minute. And they pressed Madrid hard, forcing the home side into defensive work.
Moroccan winger Ilias Akhomach, starting for Rayo, was lively on the flank, constantly challenging Madrid’s backline and adding intensity to the contest.
The game seemed destined to end in a draw until the dying moments. In stoppage time, Diaz once again made the difference. Driving into the box, he was brought down, earning Madrid a penalty in the 100th minute.
Kylian Mbappe stepped up and calmly converted, sealing the win for Los Blancos.
The win keeps Real Madrid in second place with 54 points, just one behind leaders Barcelona on 55.
Rayo Vallecano, meanwhile, remains in 16th position with 23 points, still fighting to stay clear of the relegation zone.
