Real Madrid Draws 3-3 with Rayo Vallecano

Real Madrid were held to a 3-3 draw by Rayo Vallecano, missing an opportunity to overtake Barcelona at the top of La Liga. Rayo took an early lead with goals from Unai Lopez and Abdul Mumin, but Madrid responded with strikes from Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham to level the score before halftime. Rodrygo put Madrid ahead with a deflected shot in the 56th minute, but Isi Palazon equalized for Rayo just eight minutes later. Coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed satisfaction with his team's response despite defensive lapses, highlighting injuries to key players. The result leaves Madrid one point behind Barcelona, while Vinicius Junior will miss the next match after receiving a fifth yellow card. Madrid's next challenge is the Intercontinental Cup final against Pachuca in Qatar.