Real Madrid Stumble at Vallecas as Rayo Vallecano Hold the Leaders
Rayo Stop Madrid’s Winning Run in a Fierce Battle
Real Madrid finally hit a wall in LaLiga. After thirteen straight rounds of dominance, Xabi Alonso’s team were stopped in Vallecas, a place that has often troubled them. Rayo Vallecano fought with heart and energy to force the league leaders into their first draw of the season.
It was not just a bad night. Rayo pressed hard, never backed down, and exposed Madrid’s weak moments. Despite starting their strongest attack with Güler, Bellingham, Rodrygo, Vinicius, and Mbappé, Madrid failed to break through. The game turned into a test of endurance, decided by one outstanding player: Argentine goalkeeper Augusto Batalla.
Brahim Díaz Returns and Impresses
Xabi Alonso surprised everyone with his lineup. Brahim Díaz started a league game for the first time in nearly two months. He did not score, but he was one of Madrid’s most active players in the first half, always looking for space and combining quickly with his teammates.
Rodrygo began on the bench, and Brahim tried to inject energy into the attack. Yet as Rayo grew stronger and found their rhythm, his influence faded and Madrid lost control of the game.
Rayo’s Fearless Football
Rayo’s plan was bold and fearless. Jorge de Frutos played as a false nine, with fast wingers Isi Palazón and Álvaro García causing problems on both sides. Their movement pushed Madrid’s defenders to the limit.
The home team came close several times. Andrei Ratiu forced a sharp save from Courtois, and Asencio’s header brushed the post, making the away fans nervous.
Batalla the Hero
The star of the night was Augusto Batalla. The Rayo goalkeeper stopped everything that came his way. He denied a powerful strike from Güler, blocked a volley from Vinicius, and saved Bellingham and Mbappé’s attempts with calm and confidence.
Even when Madrid sent everyone forward, Batalla stayed firm. His saves kept Rayo alive until the final whistle.
A Draw That Feels Different
The 0–0 draw leaves Real Madrid still top with 31 points, but it raises new doubts. Vallecas revealed tactical flaws and showed that even the best team can be stopped.
Rayo, with 15 points, remain safely mid-table and celebrate a result that felt like a small victory. Vallecas proved once again that it is an electric and unpredictable ground where giants can fall silent.
