Real Madrid Salvages 2-2 Draw at Elche with Bellingham’s Late Equalizer

Post by : Mara Rahim

In a gripping encounter, Jude Bellingham netted an 87th-minute equalizer for Real Madrid, who settled for a 2-2 draw against Elche in La Liga on Sunday. The match highlighted Madrid's resilience as they rallied from behind twice during the game, showcasing their fighting spirit amid a disappointing series of results.

Elche broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute through Aleix Febas. Madrid swiftly responded when defender Dean Huijsen scored his inaugural goal for the club in the 78th minute, leveling the score. However, Elche regained the lead shortly after, with Álvaro Rodríguez converting to make it 2-1. Bellingham's late strike secured a vital point for the visitors.

Despite this draw, Madrid remains ahead of Barcelona by one point, after the latter's impressive 4-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao at Camp Nou. With recent inconsistencies — including a 0-0 draw against Rayo Vallecano and a 1-0 loss to Liverpool in the Champions League — Madrid’s earlier successes seem far behind.

Coach Xabi Alonso reflected on the team’s efforts, emphasizing, “The team continues to fight. While our results and gameplay could improve, we are self-aware. The spirit is strong, and we must endure through challenges. This is Real Madrid — we embrace scrutiny.”

Substitute Vinícius Júnior made an impactful appearance, with Alonso noting, “He comprehends his role and the influence he can wield. Everyone is revitalized, eager to return to winning ways.”

Elche sits 11th in the league and is still searching for their first win in six matches. The game ended dramatically with Elche's Víctor Chust receiving a red card in stoppage time.

In other La Liga news, Atletico Madrid secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Getafe, thanks to an own goal by Domingos Duarte, marking their fifth consecutive win. Veteran Koke celebrated his 700th match for the club amid injury concerns for key players such as Jan Oblak.

Additionally, Real Betis shared the points in a 1-1 draw with Girona, while Oviedo and Rayo Vallecano played to a frustrating 0-0 stalemate, with both teams struggling to find form.

As they gear up for their next Champions League fixture against Olympiakos on Wednesday, Madrid hopes to regain their momentum. Bellingham’s late equalizer may serve as a motivational boost as they strive to reclaim their dominance in La Liga.