Defending Champions Real Madrid Frustrated by Las Palmas in 1-1 La Liga Draw
In a match that tested the resolve of the La Liga champions, Real Madrid were held to a 1-1 draw by a spirited Las Palmas side at the Estadio Gran Canaria. The result extends Madrid's unbeaten run in the league to a record 35 games, but it also raises concerns about their form early in the season which has seen them seal a win only against Valladolid.
Las Palmas took the lead in the 10th minute, capitalising on a bright start. Scotland international Oli McBurnie played a pivotal role, setting up Alberto Moleiro, who skillfully manoeuvred into the box and fired a low shot past Thibaut Courtois into the bottom corner. The goal energised the home fans and put Real Madrid on the back foot early on.
Los Blancos, missing the presence of Jude Bellingham in midfield, struggled to find their rhythm in the first half. Carlo Ancelotti's decision to start Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and Brahim Diaz up front showed promise, but the attacking trio failed to deliver in the first 45 minutes. Mbappe, playing centrally, had difficulty breaking through a well-organised Las Palmas defence, and it was evident that the team was still adjusting to new personnel and tactics.
Federico Valverde's low free-kick was Madrid’s best chance of the first half, but Las Palmas goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen made a strong save. Cillessen, a former Barcelona keeper, proved to be a formidable barrier, making crucial saves throughout the match. Antonio Rudiger also tested Cillessen with a powerful shot, but the Dutchman was up to the task.
Real Madrid improved significantly after the break, with Vinicius Jr. and Mbappe showing more intent. Mbappe created a clear opportunity by breaking through the defence, but his shot was deflected away before it could trouble Cillessen.
Vinicius Jr. finally made the breakthrough for Madrid in the 67th minute when Alex Suarez was penalised for a handball inside the box. The Brazilian calmly converted the penalty, levelling the score and giving Madrid a lifeline.
Despite increasing the pressure in the final stages, Madrid could not find a winner. Arda Guler's introduction brought a fresh impetus to the attack, but chances remained at a premium. Las Palmas nearly stunned the visitors in the dying minutes when Jaime Mata found the back of the net, only for his effort to be ruled out for offside.
The draw leaves Real with questions about their lacklustre start to the La Liga season, as they continue to seek the right balance in their lineup. Meanwhile, Las Palmas will take heart from their spirited performance against the reigning champions, earning a valuable point and showing they can compete with the league’s best.
Madrid’s next fixtures will be crucial as they look to regain momentum, while Las Palmas will aim to build on this impressive result as they navigate the challenges of the La Liga campaign.
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