La Liga leaders Real Madrid stumbled in a 1-1 draw against fierce city rivals Rayo Vallecano, handing hope to title challengers Girona and Barcelona.
Early dominance paid off for Real with Joselu’s opening goal, but their advantage was swiftly canceled out by a controversial penalty converted by Raul de Tomas following a VAR review for a handball by Eduardo Camavinga.
Carlo Ancelotti’s men struggled to create clear-cut opportunities throughout the game, ultimately settling for a single point. While they maintain their lead at the top, the gap has narrowed: six points ahead of Girona (yet to play) and eight points clear of Barcelona.
Despite an impressive record of only one league loss this season, Real missed the injured Jude Bellingham and lacked their usual cutting edge against a well-organized Rayo side. The home team, under new manager Inigo Perez, displayed commendable discipline and resilience, restricting Real to limited chances.
Toni Kroos, introduced as a substitute, nearly snatched a late winner with a free-kick saved by Rayo goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski. Frustrations boiled over for Dani Carvajal in injury time, earning him a red card for dissent.
This draw throws the La Liga title race wide open. Although Real Madrid remain favorites, both Girona and Barcelona have revived their hopes with upcoming crucial fixtures.