Real Madrid got back to winning form in dominant style, dismantling city opponents Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabeu to pull level on points with Barcelona at the summit of La Liga.
The win arrived eight days after a surprising loss to Real Betis and gave Real four victories from their opening five fixtures of the new season. They began quickly against Vallecano, establishing a three-goal cushion inside the first 35 minutes before wrapping up a 4-1 triumph.
Real Madrid launches rapid start in La Liga
Kylian Mbappe broke the deadlock after 14 minutes, sending Rayo goalkeeper Emil Audero the wrong way from the penalty spot. The spot-kick was given after Alvaro Carreras was brought down inside the box.
Mbappe then became the creator three minutes later, teeing up Carreras to double Real Madrid’s advantage. The left-back struck with conviction as the hosts swiftly seized control of the match.
Jude Bellingham made it three 10 minutes before the break following a flowing attacking sequence. Vinicius Jr’s cut-back picked out the England international, who guided the ball into the net.
Mbappe nearly added another before half-time, but his powerful attempt hit the woodwork. The French forward was thus denied a second goal of the night and a sixth of the La Liga season at that point.
Rayo Vallecano responds against Real Madrid
Rayo Vallecano pulled one back early in the second half through Sergio Camello, offering the visitors hope of a comeback at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Real Madrid, though, stayed in command and kept posing a threat as they sought to restore their three-goal lead. Despite Rayo’s reply, the hosts were ultimately able to close out the match strongly.
The key moment came in stoppage time when Mbappe scored again. He drilled a low, powerful shot into the far corner to complete the scoring and remove any doubt about the outcome.
The win also continued Real Madrid’s impressive home record against Rayo Vallecano, making it 14 victories from their last 15 home meetings with Vallecano.
Real Madrid and Barcelona sit at the top
The result leaves Real Madrid level on points with Barcelona at the top of La Liga after five matches. Their reaction to the defeat by Real Betis ensured they instantly returned to winning ways.
Barcelona now have the chance to reestablish a three-point lead when they take on Levante on Sunday at 15:15 BST.
Real Madrid’s win means the contest at the summit remains tight, with Barcelona needing a victory to pull clear once more.