La Liga: Real Madrid falls at home!

Thunderbolt in Spain! Real Madrid was defeated at home by an opportunistic Valencia team (1-2), despite a goal from Vinicius Jr and numerous missed chances.

Second at kick-off, Real hoped to catch up with FC Barcelona. But Carlo Ancelotti's men, without Courtois and Lunin, and with Fran Gonzalez in goal, faced a disciplined Valencia formation, set up in a 5-3-2 by Carlos Corberan.

Vinicius misses a penalty!

Mbappé, starting alongside Vinicius and Brahim Diaz, quickly won a penalty, but Vinicius failed against Mamardashvili (13th minute). Video:

A few moments later, Diakhaby punished the Madrilenians by opening the score with a header from a corner (15th minute). An own goal by Diakhaby, initially seen as an equalizer, was ruled out for offside (22nd minute).

Real pushed but was thwarted by an imperial Mamardashvili. Vinicius finally equalized in the 51st minute from a corner, giving his team hope.

Despite the entries of Alaba, Camavinga, and Endrick, the Merengues lacked sharpness. And in the final seconds, Hugo Duro, well served by Rafa Mir, sealed Valencia's victory (90+5th minute).

This setback could prove costly for Real, now under threat from Barça, who face Betis this Saturday night. The Merengue giant could find themselves trailing by no less than six points in the standings.

Amine Jomni |

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African football writer and sports journalist covering football news, stories and insights while sharing his expertise with fans across the continent.