Real Madrid Held to Thrilling 3-3 Draw Against Rayo Vallecano in La Liga

Defensive errors and a controversial penalty decision cost Madrid the chance to overtake Barcelona at the top of the table.

Real Madrid came back from a 2-0 deficit but conceded a late equalizer to Rayo Vallecano, leaving them one point behind Barcelona in the La Liga standings.
Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo scored for Madrid, while Rayo's goals came from Unai López, Abdul Mumin, and Isi Palazón.
Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti praised his team's effort but criticized defensive lapses and expressed frustration over a non-awarded penalty on Vinícius Júnior in the second half.
Kylian Mbappé missed the match due to a thigh injury, while Vinícius Júnior returned as a second-half substitute but was unable to secure the win.
Real Madrid now turns their attention to the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final against Pachuca on Wednesday in Qatar.