Real Madrid with 10 players goes top in La Liga after scoring last-minute goal
Aoba Tanaka
2 min read
In a dramatic twist, Lucas Vazquez emerged as the hero with a stoppage-time goal, securing a crucial victory for 10-man Real Madrid against Alaves and propelling them to the top of La Liga. The nail-biting encounter saw Real Madrid claim a 1-0 win, edging past Girona on goal difference to close out 2023 in the coveted first-place position.
Earlier in the day, a 1-1 draw between Girona and Betis had set the stage for Real Madrid’s ascent to the top, knowing that a triumph against Alaves would be the key to claiming the league leadership.
The journey to victory, however, was marred by challenges when defender Nacho received a red card in the 54th minute for a reckless foul on Samu Omorodion. Reduced to 10 men, Real Madrid faced an uphill battle, struggling to carve out opportunities against a resilient Alaves side.
As the clock ticked down, and hopes of seizing the top spot dwindled, Lucas Vazquez emerged as the savior. In the 92nd minute, Vazquez leaped to connect with a Toni Kroos corner, sending a powerful header into the net and securing a last-gasp victory for Real Madrid.
La Liga’s leading scorer, Jude Bellingham, who boasts 13 league goals in the current campaign, was unable to add to his tally in this fixture. Nevertheless, Carlo Ancelotti’s squad demonstrated resilience and determination, overcoming adversity to end the year at the pinnacle of La Liga standings.
The showdown had initially seen Girona poised for another significant win, courtesy of Artem Dovbyk’s first-half penalty. However, with just two minutes remaining, German Pezzella delivered a crucial equalizer, denying Girona a victory and paving the way for Real Madrid’s dramatic late-game triumph.
Real Madrid’s ability to secure victory in the face of adversity underscores their championship mentality, setting the stage for an exhilarating La Liga race in the upcoming year. The 2023 season concludes with Real Madrid leading the pack, leaving fans eager for more thrilling football moments in the months to come.
