Real Madrid defeated Almería 3–0 at the Santiago Bernabéu, overcoming a 0–2 deficit in the second half. Bellingham’s penalty made it 1-2, and Vini Jr. tied the game. Carvajal, a standout performer, sealed the victory in the 99th minute in a match in which referee Hernández Maeso used the VAR monitor three times.
Ramazani’s goal 40 seconds into the game kicked off the challenge. Real Madrid dominated possession, and in the 34th minute, Carvajal attempted a cross, narrowly missing an own goal due to Chumi’s clearance. With the score 0-1 at halftime, Edgar’s powerful shot from outside the box in the 43rd minute exacerbated the situation.
Ancelotti’s team made substitutions in the second half, including Joselu, Brahim, and Fran García. Real Madrid emerged determined, fueled by the Bernabéu crowd, and closed the gap with a penalty after Kaiky’s handball, which Bellingham converted in the 57th minute. However, Arribas’ goal in the 63rd minute was ruled out due to a foul by Lopy on Bellingham.
The intensity continued, and Vini Jr. scored in the 68th minute following a VAR review, which was initially disallowed for a handball but later confirmed as a legitimate goal. With the score 2-2, the team aimed for a win in the final 20 minutes.
Real Madrid thought they had taken the lead with Bellingham’s goal in the 77th minute, but it was ruled out for offside by Fran García. Despite several close calls, including Maximiano’s save against Vini Jr. in the 81st minute and Bellingham’s header miss, Real Madrid held on.
The deciding moment came in extra time, when Bellingham’s header found Carvajal at the far post to seal the 3-2 victory. Carvajal’s unwavering spirit contributed to Real Madrid’s triumphant comeback, resulting in three valuable points.
Real Madrid demonstrated resilience and determination in a match marked by VAR interventions and suspenseful moments, eventually winning a memorable victory at Santiago Bernabéu.
