Suspense crime, Digital Desk : Real Madrid’s trip to Valencia turned into one of the most talked-about LaLiga matches of the season, ending in a dramatic 2-2 draw packed with a stunning comeback, a horrific injury, and a hugely controversial refereeing decision that denied Jude Bellingham a last-second winner.
Valencia, playing at their vibrant Mestalla stadium, shocked the league leaders by racing into a two-goal lead before the half-hour mark. Hugo Duro struck first for the hosts, followed swiftly by Roman Yaremchuk, capitalizing on some defensive lapses from Madrid and putting Real under serious pressure.
However, Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid side showed their champion spirit. Vinícius Júnior became the focal point of their fightback. The Brazilian winger pulled one goal back just before halftime, giving Madrid hope. He then completed the comeback in the second half, leveling the scores at 2-2 with a well-taken header, setting the stage for a tense and ultimately explosive finale.
The game’s most explosive and controversial moment came in the dying seconds of stoppage time. With the clock deep into added minutes, Real Madrid launched a final attack. Brahim Díaz whipped in a cross from the right. As the ball was sailing through the air towards Jude Bellingham, who subsequently headed it powerfully into the net for what looked like a dramatic winner, referee Jesús Gil Manzano blew the final whistle.
The “goal” was immediately disallowed because the whistle had sounded fractionally before Bellingham made contact. Real Madrid players, led by a furious Bellingham, surrounded the referee in disbelief and protest. Bellingham’s vehement complaints earned him a straight red card after the whistle, meaning he will face a suspension.
Adding a deeply somber note to the chaotic match, Valencia defender Mouctar Diakhaby suffered what appeared to be a severe leg injury late in the game after an accidental collision with Real Madrid’s Aurélien Tchouaméni. Players from both teams were visibly distressed by the gravity of the injury, and the game was paused for a considerable time as Diakhaby received extensive medical attention on the pitch before being carefully stretchered off.
Despite the dropped points and the frustratingly bizarre end to the match, Real Madrid remain at the top of the LaLiga table, though their lead has been slightly trimmed. This fiery encounter will undoubtedly be remembered for Vinícius Júnior’s crucial brace, the unfortunate and serious injury to Diakhaby, and, above all, the referee’s astonishing decision to end the game mid-attack, a call that will fuel debate and scrutiny for days to come.
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