Real Madrid staged a remarkable comeback from a 2-0 deficit to secure a 3-2 victory against UD Almería in La Liga (LL). This win not only prevented Real Madrid from experiencing their first-ever home defeat against Los Rojiblancos but also propelled them past surprising title contenders Girona in the standings.
The Estadio Santiago Bernabéu was left stunned within the first 40 seconds as Sergio Arribas intercepted Nacho Fernández’s careless pass, initiating a sequence that led to Largie Ramazani’s shot finding the net. Real Madrid, not performing at their usual dominant level, struggled, with Rodrygo missing a key opportunity early on.
Despite being at the bottom of LL, Almería displayed confidence, and Sergio Akieme’s forward run resulted in an enticing cross that Arribas failed to convert. The visitors exhibited organization and determination, typified by captain Lucas Robertone, causing frustration for the hosts, especially evident in Jude Bellingham’s displeasure. The frustration heightened when another mistake by Nacho led to a stunning goal from Edgar González just before halftime, drawing whistles from the Bernabéu faithful.
Carlo Ancelotti made a triple substitution at halftime, and the hosts responded by intensifying their efforts. Two of the substitutes played a crucial role in earning a lifeline, as Kaiky’s handball from Fran García’s cross led to a penalty, which Bellingham converted. This marked the first of three VAR-assisted decisions that angered Almería’s coach, Gaizka Garitano. Arribas had a goal disallowed, and despite handball appeals, Vinícius Júnior’s goal was allowed to stand.
Bellingham appeared to have sealed the win, but García was ruled offside when setting him up. After Garitano’s dismissal from the sidelines, Bellingham played a role in the winning goal. In the 99th minute, his header was turned in at the back post by Dani Carvajal, securing all three points for the 35-time LL champions, who moved ahead of Girona in the standings. Almería, on the other hand, experienced a familiar sense of disappointment, extending their quest for a first league win this season.