Real Madrid 2-0 Getafe: Mbappe and Bellingham on target as Los Blancos regain second spot
Real Madrid closed the gap to just one point from the top of LaLiga after securing a 2-0 victory against Getafe at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, marking their 16th consecutive home win against this opponent.
With league leaders Barcelona suffering a 2-1 loss to Las Palmas on Saturday, the pressure mounted on a Real Madrid squad heavily impacted by injuries to secure a win and draw closer to their long-standing rivals—an outcome that seemed unlikely just weeks prior.
Getafe arrived with momentum, having achieved consecutive victories for the first time since December 2023, and they initially managed to frustrate Carlo Ancelotti’s team, limiting their opportunities in the first 25 minutes.
The match shifted dramatically just before the 30-minute mark when Antonio Rudiger was fouled in the penalty area by Allan Nyom following a corner kick.
In light of Kylian Mbappe's recent penalty miss, Jude Bellingham took over the penalty responsibilities and confidently converted the spot-kick.
Bellingham's composed finish seemed to invigorate Mbappe, who quickly extended Madrid's lead with a stunning 20-yard strike after receiving a precise through ball from Bellingham.
The away supporters experienced a moment of relief shortly after the second half began when the referee rescinded his initial penalty call against Juan Berrocal after a VAR review. Following this, Getafe nearly found the net during a rare attack, with Christantus Uche hitting the post as the game neared the hour mark.
Jose Bordalas had previously lost all five of his encounters against Ancelotti, and he appeared perplexed as his team struggled to capitalize on their earlier opportunity.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid looked more likely to score again, with Federico Valverde forcing a solid save from Soria, and Mbappe missing a golden chance to add to his tally with the goal at his feet.
John Patrick struck the woodwork in the closing moments for the Azulones, yet they suffered their third loss in four matches, remaining just one position above the relegation zone.
In contrast, Real moved to within a point of the top of the table while still holding a game in hand; since April 2023, only Barcelona has managed to defeat them at the Bernabéu in league play.
SportsLigue