In a thrilling La Liga matchup, Real Madrid edged past Elche with a 3-2 victory, thanks to a last-gasp goal from substitute Carlos Espi. This win allows Madrid to catch up with Barcelona at the top of the league standings, both clubs now level on points as the season intensifies.
Madrid initially seemed to be cruising to a comfortable win after establishing a two-goal lead. Arda Guler’s free-kick, which ricocheted off the post and then Elche’s goalkeeper Matias Dituro, put Madrid ahead. Kylian Mbappe extended the advantage shortly afterward, finishing off a cross from Yan Diomande.
However, Elche mounted a spirited comeback in the second half. Abiel Osorio found the net with a header from Lucas Cepeda’s cross, and Nino further rallied the team with an equalizer in the 83rd minute, setting the stage for a tense finish at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho responded by bringing on Carlos Espi and Endrick to bolster the attack. The move paid off in stoppage time when Mbappe’s pass found Espi at the back post, allowing the 20-year-old to score the decisive goal. Espi, a summer signing from Levante, has now scored two crucial late goals this season.
This victory marks five wins in six matches for Madrid, keeping them in strong contention alongside defending champions Barcelona, who are set to play Racing Santander next. In other league action, Valencia secured their first win of the season against Alaves, while Rayo Vallecano triumphed over Espanyol.