LaLiga leaders Real Madrid suffered a shocking 1-0 loss to relegation-threatened Espanyol on Saturday, with Carlos Romero scoring the decisive goal in the 85th minute. This result leaves Real Madrid just one point ahead of Atletico Madrid, who won their match against Mallorca. Barcelona, in third place, will play Alaves on Sunday.
The game saw Vinicius Jr’s goal disallowed due to a foul by Kylian Mbappe in the build-up, while Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia made several outstanding saves to keep Real at bay. Romero’s late winner came after a controversial challenge on Mbappe, with Real coach Carlo Ancelotti criticizing the decision not to review the incident using VAR.
Despite bringing on attacking options like Luka Modric and Brahim Diaz, Real Madrid failed to find an equalizer, allowing Espanyol to snatch a vital victory. Romero expressed his joy at the result, which lifted Espanyol out of the relegation zone and praised the team’s strong home form.
The loss for Real Madrid sets up a crucial match against Atletico Madrid in the upcoming Spanish capital derby. With the LaLiga title race heating up, every point becomes crucial for the top teams in the league.
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