Real Madrid Battles Elche to Draw in La Liga Showdown

Elche, Spain – Real Madrid has failed to win their third consecutive match, finishing in a 2-2 draw with Elche after a tense encounter on Sunday evening. The match marked their return from the November international break at the Estadio Martínez Valero.

Manager Xabi Alonso made surprising choices in his starting lineup, leaving star player Vinícius Júnior on the bench in favor of Rodrygo and selecting Fran García and Dani Ceballos in the midfield. Despite the tactical gamble, Real Madrid struggled in the first half.

Elche took the lead in the 53rd minute after Alemén Valera’s backheel setup allowed Aleix Febas to score. Madrid responded later with Dean Huijsen leveling the score at 1-1. However, Elche regained the lead in the 84th minute with Álvaro Rodríguez’s clinical strike.

Just three minutes later, Jude Bellingham scored for Real Madrid, equalizing at 2-2. The match featured a thrilling conclusion as Elche was reduced to ten men in stoppage time, yet Madrid was unable to secure a winner.

Statistically, Real Madrid controlled most of the match with 54% possession and an expected goals total of 3.33 from 20 shots, compared to Elche’s xG of 1.67 from 15 shots. Despite the draw, Los Blancos remain at the top of La Liga, just one point ahead of their closest rivals.

“We missed the chance to claim three points, but it’s still valuable to take one point after a tough match,” said Bellingham after the game.