Real Madrid Steal the Show with a Controversial Comeback Win Over Almeria
Real Madrid produced a dramatic and controversial comeback to beat winless Almeria 3-2 on Sunday, moving provisionally top of La Liga in the process.
FINAL #RealMadridAlmería 3-2
El @realmadrid se hace con la victoria en #LALIGAEASPORTS. #ResultsByVisitSaudi pic.twitter.com/N0yKbiCYKV
— LALIGA (@LaLiga) January 21, 2024
Dani Carvajal scored the winning goal in the 99th minute, capping off a wild and hugely entertaining clash at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Almeria took a surprising two-goal lead in the first half, with Largie Ramazani opening the scoring in the 38th minute and Edgar Gonzalez adding a screamer just before half-time. However, Madrid battled back in the second half, with Jude Bellingham converting a penalty and Vinicius Junior equalizing with a controversial goal that was initially ruled out for handball but later allowed to stand after a VAR review.
Carvajal’s last-gasp winner sent the Bernabeu into raptures, but the victory was overshadowed by some controversy. Vinicius’s goal was clearly scored with his arm, and many felt that it should not have been allowed to stand. Additionally, Almeria coach Gaizka Garitano was sent off during stoppage time for protesting the decision.
Despite the controversy, Real Madrid’s win was a welcome boost for their La Liga title hopes. The victory puts them two points clear of Barcelona at the top of the table, and they will be looking to extend their lead when they face Real Betis next weekend.