Carlo Ancelotti's team sorely felt the absence of their Ballon d'Or frontrunner, yet they managed to secure three crucial points through a spirited late comeback.
In the absence of the Ballon d'Or frontrunner, Jude Bellingham, Carlo Ancelotti's team faced a daunting challenge. However, despite the initial struggle, they orchestrated a late surge, clinching three points in a thrilling comeback.
The absence of Bellingham was keenly felt by Madrid, and the challenges proved more significant than anticipated. For the first hour, Los Blancos seemed disengaged, but a sudden injection of quality in the closing stages allowed them to overcome a deficit and secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Las Palmas.
The visitors found themselves without their usual attacking flair as Bellingham served a suspension due to his fifth yellow card last week. The responsibility shifted early onto Rodrygo, the Brazilian forward, who unfortunately missed a crucial opportunity from five yards out in Los Blancos' initial significant chance. Las Palmas gained momentum in the game and deservedly took the lead. In the early stages of the second half, the home team executed a seamless move, concluding with Javier Munoz calmly slotting the ball home from close range.
The turning point for Madrid came when Vinicius Jr, spurred the team into action, smashing the ball into the far corner following a delightful through ball from Eduardo Camavinga. While individual brilliance played its part, it was a set piece that ultimately sealed the deal. Toni Kroos delivered a decisive ball, met by substitute Aurelien Tchouameni, whose header found the far corner, igniting jubilation among the ecstatic Madrid fans.
