Real Madrid clinched a thrilling 3-2 victory over Elche on Tuesday, thanks to a stoppage-time goal from substitute Carlos Espi. The win allows Madrid to draw level with Barcelona at the top of La Liga standings.
The match, played at Elche’s home ground, initially seemed firmly in Madrid’s control. The visitors surged ahead with two goals, the first coming from a fortuitous play where Arda Guler’s free-kick rebounded off the post, hitting Elche’s goalkeeper Matias Dituro before crossing the line. Kylian Mbappe extended the lead shortly after, capitalizing on a cross from Yan Diomande.
However, Elche mounted an impressive comeback in the second half. Abiel Osorio ignited hope for the hosts by heading in a cross from Lucas Cepeda, and Nino completed the rally with a crucial equalizer in the 83rd minute, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion.
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho responded by introducing Espi and Endrick, seeking to regain the lead. Espi, who joined the team from Levante this summer, delivered just that by scoring at the back post in the 91st minute, assisted by Mbappe. This marked Espi’s second decisive goal of the season, having also secured a victory against Espanyol earlier.
The triumph grants Madrid their fifth win in six league matches, matching Barcelona on points. Meanwhile, Barcelona is set to face Racing Santander on Wednesday in an attempt to reclaim the top spot. In other matches, Valencia achieved their first win of the season with a 1-0 result against Alaves, and Rayo Vallecano defeated Espanyol 2-1.