Real Madrid’s LaLiga title hopes have suffered a blow after being held to a 1-1 draw by Girona.
Madrid Held After Lemar Cancels Out Valverde Strike
Thomas Lemar’s powerful left-footed strike for Girona cancelled out Valverde’s earlier goal, leaving the match level. Lunin was unable to stop Lemar’s shot, which found the net at the Bernabéu. The former Atlético de Madrid player scored the equaliser.
The draw means Real Madrid have dropped more points, further diminishing their chances of winning LaLiga. There was also a moment of significant controversy, with Real Madrid players claiming a penalty for a foul on Mbappé.
Mbappé Penalty Claim Denied
Mbappé went down in the area, appealing for a penalty after a blow to the face from Vitor Reis. Alberola Rojas decided against awarding a penalty. The referee was clear in his decision that there was no penalty on Mbappé.
Iturralde González analysed the incident, saying that if the referee had awarded a penalty live, it would have been a foul, but VAR would not intervene. He added that he thought it was a penalty, but the instructions given to VAR are not to intervene in such plays. Mbappé remained on the ground, protesting the decision.
Madrid Lacking Inspiration in Final Third
Real Madrid struggled to break down the Girona defence. Mbappé found space behind the defence, beating his marker with a cutback, but his shot was saved by Gazzaniga.
Vinicius won a free kick. Vinicius’s impressive performance reminded Arbeloa of his underused resource within the squad: a player capable of creating chances in tight spaces, and with a clear commitment to the team. He created the most chances, with seven, and attempted the most passes in the final third. He also won four free kicks and assisted Valverde for the goal.
Changes Made as Madrid Chase Winner
Álvaro Arbeloa made a double substitution, bringing on Tchouameni and Mendy for Camavinga and Fran García. Brahim was also substituted in Real Madrid’s final change. Girona were forced into a substitution as an injured player was replaced by Stuani and Fran Beltrán.
- Lemar’s goal cancelled out Valverde’s opener.
- Mbappé claimed for a penalty after a challenge by Vitor Reis.
- Vinicius was a creative spark for Real Madrid.
Girona are now better positioned and psychologically boosted by their equaliser. Real Madrid appeared somewhat lost in the final stages of the match, relying more on heart than composure. The match ended with Real Madrid unable to find a winning goal, with a late ball into the area cleared by the Girona defence.