Real Madrid finally ran into a wall capable of stopping their flawless LaLiga run. After thirteen rounds of dominance, Xabi Alonso’s team stumbled in a stadium that has historically complicated their visits: Vallecas. A brave, energetic Rayo Vallecano forced the league leaders into their first draw of the season — a match filled with intensity, tension, and an unexpected standout: Argentine goalkeeper Augusto Batalla, who became the hero of the night.

This wasn’t a casual off day. Rayo pressed hard, played without fear, and punished every moment of Madrid’s disorganization. Despite fielding all of their attacking stars — Güler, Bellingham, Rodrygo, Vinicius, and Mbappé — Madrid couldn’t unlock a match that turned into a battle of endurance.

Brahim Díaz Returns to the XI… and Delivers

Xabi Alonso surprised everyone with his lineup. After nearly two months without starting a league match, Brahim Díaz returned to the starting XI. He didn’t score, but he was one of the brightest players in Madrid’s attack: constant movement, sharp combinations, and a first half that showed he wants a bigger role.

With Rodrygo starting on the bench, Brahim was tasked with energizing the final third. His influence, however, faded as Rayo’s rhythm grew and the hosts controlled more of the ball.

A Bold, Fast, Fearless Rayo Vallecano

Rayo approached the game with a daring setup: Jorge de Frutos operating as a false nine, supported by wingers Isi Palazón and Álvaro García, two players built for speed. Their movement pushed Madrid’s back line to the limit, especially in the opening half.

The home side even came close to scoring: Andrei Ratiu forced a strong save from Courtois, while Asencio grazed the post with a header that stunned the away fans.

Batalla vs Madrid: The Duel That Defined the Night

If the match stayed alive until the final whistle, it’s because of one name: Augusto Batalla.

The Argentine goalkeeper denied a left-footed strike from Arda Güler, smothered a dangerous volley from Vinicius, and kept the goal untouched even against efforts from Bellingham and Mbappé in the second half.

When Madrid flooded the box with all their attacking power, Batalla stood tall — with firm hands, quick reactions, and a calmness that belied the chaos created by the league leaders.

Madrid Pushed… but Couldn’t Break Through

The second half turned into a chaotic back-and-forth.
Rayo sought more possession and accelerated transitions through Pathé Ciss and Unai López, who spread the game from side to side.
Madrid leaned heavily on individual brilliance instead of collective structure.

Bellingham forced Batalla into a tough save.
Mbappé curled a shot inches wide.
Fede Valverde tested from distance.

Even with all their offensive firepower on the pitch, the leaders couldn’t break down a rival that defended with heart and attacked without fear.

A Point With Two Very Different Meanings

The draw keeps Real Madrid atop the table with 31 points, but raises questions — Vallecas exposed tactical cracks and reminded everyone that even a dominant team can struggle when the rhythm breaks.

Rayo, now on 15 points, remain comfortably mid-table and celebrate a draw that, at times, tasted like a victory against one of Europe’s most in-form teams.

Vallecas was Vallecas once again: uncomfortable, electric, unpredictable — and a place where even giants can be slowed down.