Could Vinicius' Double Propel Real Madrid to Victory Over Villarreal?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Vinicius Jr. showcased his talent with two goals.
- Kylian Mbappe secured the win with a late goal.
- Real Madrid temporarily tops La Liga.
- A red card changed the dynamics for Villarreal.
- Athletic Bilbao and Girona also had notable performances.
Madrid, Oct 4 (NationPress) Real Madrid has temporarily ascended to the pinnacle of La Liga following a convincing 3-1 victory against Villarreal at their home ground. Vinicius Jr. initiated the scoring just two minutes into the second half with a deflected strike, and he extended the advantage in the 69th minute with a penalty kick.
Georges Mikautadze brought Villarreal back into contention in the 73rd minute, but their aspirations were dashed when Santiago Mourino received a second yellow card for minimal contact with Vinicius.
Kylian Mbappe capped off the match with a goal in the 81st minute, although he exited the field due to a minor physical concern.
With this win, Real Madrid leads by two points over FC Barcelona, who are set to face Sevilla on Sunday.
In another match, Athletic Bilbao triumphed 2-1 against Mallorca, with Inaki Williams converting a penalty in the ninth minute. Despite creating numerous opportunities in the first half, they failed to convert further chances.
Mallorca leveled the score in the 77th minute when a cross from Samu Costa caught goalkeeper Unai Simon off guard, finding the far corner of the net.
Alejandro Rego clinched victory for Athletic with his first goal for the club in the 82nd minute, capitalizing on a pullback from Jesus Areso.
In a match between newly promoted sides, Levante secured a 2-0 away victory against Oviedo, fueled by goals from Carlos Alvarez and Etta Eyong.
Girona achieved their first win of the season with a thrilling 2-1 victory at home against Valencia, despite finishing with nine men.
Vladyslav Vanat opened the scoring in the 18th minute, followed by Diego Lopez equalizing just after halftime.
The decisive goal came from Arnau Martinez in the 63rd minute, although Girona had to endure a tense finish after Ivan Martin and Alejandro Frances were sent off in the dying moments.
Meanwhile, Osasuna snatched a 2-1 victory over Getafe with a last-minute header from Alejandro Catena. Borja Mayoral had initially given Getafe the lead in the 23rd minute, but defender Abel Bretones equalized just before halftime with a remarkable shot.