Real Madrid draws with Elche Amidst Late Controversy in LaLiga Clash
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ELCHE, SPAIN – A contentious late goal by Jude Bellingham secured a 2-2 draw for Real Madrid against Elche on Sunday, November 26th, in a LaLiga match marked by a disputed play in the final minutes.The result maintains Real Madrid’s lead in the Spanish top flight, but narrows the gap to just one point over Barcelona.
The match at the Estadio Martínez Valero saw both sides demonstrate attacking prowess, but the outcome will be heavily debated due to a perceived foul in the build-up to Bellingham’s equalizer. the draw impacts the LaLiga title race, keeping the pressure on both leading clubs as the season progresses, with Real Madrid facing a busy week ahead including a Champions league fixture against Olympiacos and a league match against Girona.
Key Performances & Match Flow
Elche goalkeeper Iñaki Peña delivered a standout performance, making crucial saves throughout the match and frustrating Real Madrid’s potent attack.Despite Peña’s heroics, Real Madrid twice equalized, first through a goal that ultimately sparked controversy.
The match began with both teams exhibiting offensive intent. Elche took the lead, but Real Madrid responded to level the score. However, the game’s defining moment arrived in the 87th minute when Bellingham found the back of the net, sparking immediate debate over a potential foul committed by vinícius on Peña in the lead-up to the goal. Reports indicate Vinícius’ contact with the goalkeeper even resulted in a bloody nose for peña.
Lineups
Elche: Iñaki Peña, Héctor Fort, Álvaro Núñez, Víctor Chust, David Affengruber, Germán Valera, Marc Aguado, Aleix Febas, Diang, Rafa Mir, and André Silva.
Real Madrid: Thibaut Courtois,Trent Alexander-Arnold,Raúl Asencio,Dean Huijsen,Álvaro Carreras,Fran García,Dani Ceballos,Arda Güler,Jude Bellingham,Rodrygo,and Kylian Mbappé.
What’s Next
Elche will travel to face Getafe on Friday, November 28th, for their next LaLiga contest. Real Madrid’s schedule is more demanding, with a Champions League match against olympiacos on Wednesday, November 26th, followed by a league game at Girona on Sunday, November 30th.
Standings Update
Real Madrid remains at the top of the LaLiga table with 32 points. Barcelona closely trails with 31 points. Elche currently occupies the 11th position with 16 points.