Real Madrid Edge Past Leganes as Atletico's Title Aspirations Dwindle

Synopsis

In a thrilling encounter, Real Madrid secured a narrow 3-2 victory over Leganes, bringing them level on points with FC Barcelona in La Liga. Kylian Mbappe played a crucial role, scoring two goals, while Atletico Madrid's title hopes dwindled after a draw against Espanyol.

Key Takeaways

Real Madrid's win brings them level with Barcelona.
Kylian Mbappe's two goals were pivotal in the match.
Atletico Madrid's title chances are diminishing.
Rayo Vallecano boosts European hopes with a win.
Real Sociedad continues their strong form in La Liga.

Madrid, March 30 (NationPress) Real Madrid has equalized points with FC Barcelona at the summit of La Liga following a close 3-2 victory against Leganes at home, featuring two goals from Kylian Mbappe.

Mbappe's initial strike came from the penalty spot, which Leganes contested fervently after Arda Guler fell due to a challenge. However, Leganes quickly responded when Diego Garcia capitalized on a loose ball in the Madrid box, as reported by Xinhua.

Dani Raba then completed a rapid counter-attack just four minutes before halftime, giving the visitors the lead after Brahim Diaz lost possession in midfield.

Jude Bellingham equalized at the beginning of the second half, and Mbappe netted what became the decisive goal with 15 minutes remaining, after Renato Tapia was penalized for a challenge on Rodrygo, despite having won the ball.

The title hopes of Atletico Madrid suffered another significant setback as they were held to a 1-1 draw against Espanyol.

Cesar Azpilicueta scored a stunning volley from outside the penalty area to give Atletico the lead in the 38th minute. However, Clement Lenglet conceded a penalty for Espanyol by bringing down Leandro Cabrera 20 minutes from time, allowing Javi Puado to level the score from the spot.

Atletico lost defender Robin Le Normand due to a head injury in the first half, casting doubt on his participation in the upcoming Copa del Rey semi-final against Barcelona next Wednesday.

Rayo Vallecano bolstered their chances of European qualification with a 2-0 victory away against Alaves, who remain in serious relegation trouble.

Pathe Cisse gave Rayo the lead within a minute, as the home team failed to properly defend a corner. Joan Jordan squandered a penalty for Alaves with a weak shot that went straight to the goalkeeper, and Pedro Diaz sealed the win in the 57th minute with a powerful strike after evading two defenders.

The day commenced with Real Sociedad defeating bottom-placed Valladolid 2-1 at home.

Mikel Oyarzabal scored in the 23rd minute, followed by a second goal from Sergio Gomez after 68 minutes, putting Real Sociedad 2-0 ahead, before Juanmi Latasa netted a late goal, resulting in a tense finish at Anoeta Stadium.

Barcelona is set to host Girona on Sunday, while Villarreal will visit Getafe, and Athletic Club Bilbao will be among the prominent fixtures, along with the Seville derby featuring Betis and Sevilla.