Real Madrid’s grip on the La Liga title race loosened slightly on Saturday following a surprising 1-0 loss to Espanyol.
Despite the setback, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti insists his team remains in control of their destiny.
The lone goal of the match came late in the second half when Carlos Romero slotted the ball home after a well-placed pass from Omar El Hilali.
The victory was a hard-fought one for Espanyol, who had to withstand considerable pressure from Real Madrid throughout the game.
Real Madrid’s star-studded attack, featuring Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and Jude Bellingham, struggled to break down a resolute Espanyol defense.
Goalkeeper Joan Garcia put in a stellar performance, making several crucial saves to deny Real Madrid’s efforts.
A goal from Vinicius Jr. in the first half was disallowed after Mbappe was deemed to have fouled Espanyol’s Pol Lozano in the buildup.
Controversy arose when Ancelotti criticized the referee’s decision not to send off Romero for a challenge on Mbappe. “It was a clear foul, a very ugly tackle, but fortunately nothing happened,” Ancelotti commented after the game.
Adding to Real Madrid’s woes, defender Antonio Rudiger left the pitch with a muscle injury. Ancelotti stated that the extent of the injury was still being assessed.
“He had an injury and we will have to assess it. It’s too early to talk about it. I can’t tell you anything yet,” he said.
Despite the defeat, Real Madrid still leads La Liga with 49 points, just one point ahead of their city rivals, Atletico Madrid, who secured a 2-0 victory over Mallorca.
The two Madrid teams are set to clash next weekend in what promises to be a crucial match in the title race.
“We had chances and could have scored, but despite the defeat we are still in the fight. We have to focus on the next game,” Ancelotti concluded.
