Mbappe’stoppage-time penalty lifts Real Madrid past Rayo 2–1
Real Madrid took the lead in the 15th minute when Vinícius Júnior produced a moment of brilliance to put the hosts ahead.
KATHMANDU: Kylian Mbappé struck a decisive penalty deep into stoppage time as Real Madrid edged past nine-man Rayo Vallecano 2–1 in a tense La Liga encounter at the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday.
Real Madrid took the lead in the 15th minute when Vinícius Júnior produced a moment of brilliance to put the hosts ahead.
However, Rayo Vallecano responded after the break, with Jorge de Frutos equalising in the 49th minute to level the match.
The game grew increasingly heated as Rayo were reduced to nine players.
Pathé Ciss was sent off with 10 minutes remaining, and Pep Chavarría also saw red late in the match.
In the dying moments, Rayo defender Nopbel Mendy fouled Brahim Díaz inside the penalty area, prompting the referee to award Real Madrid a penalty.
Mbappé calmly converted in the 10th minute of injury time to secure all three points for the hosts.
With the victory, Real Madrid remain second in the La Liga standings, trailing leaders Barcelona by just one point, with Barça sitting on 55 points.
