Surprise title contenders Girona close in as Real Madrid stumble against Vallecano

Real Madrid, the current leaders of the Spanish league, found themselves held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by city rivals Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, as an early strike from Joselu was canceled out by Raúl de Tomás's penalty. The result has added intrigue to the title race, with surprise contenders Girona potentially closing the gap.

After a commanding 4-0 victory over Girona last week, Real Madrid stumbled at Vallecas, failing to capitalize on their lead and allowing Rayo Vallecano to level the score. The draw could see Girona, currently second in the league standings, edge closer once again, especially with a game in hand against Athletic Bilbao on Monday.

Joselu opened the scoring for Real Madrid after capitalizing on a defensive error from Rayo Vallecano. A swift counterattack, initiated by a wasted opportunity from De Tomás, saw Federico Valverde deliver a precise pass to Joselu, who tapped the ball into the net. Initially ruled offside, VAR quickly corrected the decision, confirming Joselu's goal.

🚨⚪️ Ancelotti when asked about Real Madrid not focused because of what’s happening with Mbappé.

“When have we not been focused? We are always focused, today too. There’s nothing negative to tell this team this season”. pic.twitter.com/szegaGiSNN

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 18, 2024

Despite dominating possession with up to 65%, Real Madrid squandered numerous opportunities and allowed Rayo Vallecano to equalize through De Tomás's penalty in the 27th minute, following a handball by midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, spotted by VAR.

Real Madrid's woes continued in the second half, where they failed to convert their chances despite being on top. The frustration boiled over in added time when substitute Dani Carvajal received two yellow cards in quick succession, reducing Real Madrid to 10 men.

Meanwhile, at the lower end of the table, Granada and Almería played out a 1-1 draw at Los Carmenes. Marc Pubill gave Almería an early lead in the ninth minute, but Myrto Uzuni equalized for Granada with 15 minutes remaining.