Real Madrid secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabéu, with Kylian Mbappé converting a penalty in the 100th minute to extend Los Blancos’ winning run in LaLiga to six matches.

After a disappointing Champions League outing in midweek, which saw Anatoliy Trubin’s late goal for Benfica leave Real facing a playoff tie, Carlo Ancelotti’s side were eager to respond with a strong domestic performance. However, their plans were disrupted early when Jude Bellingham was forced off in tears with a hamstring injury.

Rayo almost took advantage of the setback inside five minutes when Ilias Akhomach found space in the area but dragged his effort wide. Instead, Real struck first in the 15th minute. Vinícius Júnior, without a league goal since October 2025, ended his drought in style by curling a superb strike into the top corner from the edge of the box.

Chances were limited for the remainder of the first half, though Arda Güler tested Augusto Batalla from a tight angle. Rayo improved as the interval approached but failed to trouble Thibaut Courtois, reflecting their ongoing struggles in front of goal.

The visitors drew level shortly after the restart. Álvaro García headed a searching cross back into the danger area, allowing Jorge de Frutos to sweep past Courtois from close range.

Both teams then squandered clear opportunities to take the lead. Courtois denied Andrei Rațiu in a one-on-one, while Mbappé rattled the crossbar after Batalla misjudged an attempted interception.

Real were handed a major boost when Pathé Ciss was sent off for a high challenge on Dani Ceballos. Ceballos soon went close himself, firing narrowly wide as the match entered its closing stages. Eduardo Camavinga later struck the post with a header as pressure mounted.

Deep into stoppage time, Real were awarded a decisive penalty after Nobel Mendy brought down Brahim Díaz. Mbappé stepped up in the 100th minute and calmly sent Batalla the wrong way to seal the victory.

Rayo’s misery was compounded when Pep Chavarría received a second yellow card for a late push on Rodrygo, leaving the visitors with nine men.

The win moves Real to within one point of league leaders Barcelona, while the defeat leaves Rayo just one point above the relegation zone, having managed only one victory in their last 12 league matches.