Real Madrid maintained their top position in La Liga despite a 1-1 stalemate at Osasuna on Saturday, a match marked by Jude Bellingham’s dismissal, whilst Atletico Madrid also drew 1-1 against Celta Vigo.
The league leaders scored first through Kylian Mbappe, but proceedings took a turn when Bellingham received a red card for dissent near the conclusion of the first period.
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Osasuna equalised via Ante Budimir’s penalty conversion at the 58-minute mark, as the defending champions extended their winless league run to three matches.
Despite playing with reduced numbers after Pablo Barrios’ early dismissal in the seventh minute, Atletico Madrid stayed within a point of Los Blancos, whilst Barcelona could potentially match Real Madrid’s points tally should they triumph over Rayo Vallecano on Monday.
Bellingham defended his actions, stating he was merely expressing personal frustration. “I think you can see clearly in the video, I remember the incident very well, it was an expression to myself,” he told reporters. “I’m not even directing myself towards the referee, but obviously there was a misunderstanding. He’s believed that I’ve said (something insulting) to him… There was no intent to insult him, there was no insult.”
Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid’s manager, expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance despite the result. “In a footballing sense we started very well, and we finished well despite having one less player,” said Ancelotti.
The Italian tactician adjusted his lineup considering the upcoming Champions League fixture against Manchester City, resting Rodrygo whilst giving Brahim Diaz a start.
Los Blancos dominated early proceedings with swift ball movement, and Mbappe soon converted Fede Valverde’s cross, marking his seventh goal in five La Liga appearances.
The match shifted when Bellingham received his red card at 39 minutes after an exchange with referee Jose Munuera Montero.
Ancelotti defended his player: “I think with Bellingham’s red card (the referee) didn’t understand the English well… I don’t think it’s something offensive. I think the red card came out because the referee was nervous… Bellingham did nothing today to have been sent off, absolutely nothing.”
After previous complaints about Spanish officiating, Madrid’s frustrations grew in the second half. Osasuna equalised through Budimir’s penalty after Camavinga fouled him, bringing the striker’s season tally to 13 goals.
Mbappe had a final opportunity in stoppage time, but goalkeeper Sergio Herrera made a crucial save.
Regarding Atletico’s match, Diego Simeone praised his team’s resilience: “The team had gladiators again, playing 90 minutes with one fewer player is very tough,” whilst acknowledging Barrios’ dismissal as correct.
Koke reflected on the challenge: “When we were left with 10 men it’s very difficult… the team tried everything. We defended well, we suffered when we had to. Obviously we’re still in the fight for the title.”
In another fixture, Valencia secured a 1-1 draw at Villarreal in their relegation battle.
