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Kylian Mbappe scored twice as Real Madrid returned to winning ways with a convincing 4-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday.
The win moved Jose Mourinho’s side level on 12 points with Barcelona at the top of La Liga, although Barcelona could reclaim outright leadership when they visit Levante on Sunday.
Real Madrid took control early, with Mbappe opening the scoring from the penalty spot in the 14th minute after Alvaro Carreras was brought down inside the area.
Carreras doubled the advantage three minutes later after combining with Mbappe, before Jude Bellingham made it 3-0 in the 35th minute following a move involving Vinicius Junior. Madrid went into the break with a commanding lead.
Rayo responded after the restart when Sergio Camello capitalised on a mistake from Vinicius to reduce the deficit in the 51st minute. The visitors created further opportunities, but Thibaut Courtois produced important saves to keep Madrid in control.
Mourinho introduced Arda Guler as Madrid sought to regain control of the game, and the Turkish midfielder played a decisive role in the closing stages.
Guler set up Mbappe for Madrid’s fourth goal in stoppage time, with the Frenchman finishing across goal to complete his brace and seal the victory.
The result marked Madrid’s fourth consecutive home win at the Santiago Bernabeu, while Mbappe’s second goal took his tally to seven across six appearances this season.
Mourinho said the victory was particularly important after Madrid’s previous league defeat to Real Betis, adding that his players had to respond physically and mentally after their Champions League victory over Inter Milan.
Rayo coach Benat San Jose acknowledged Madrid’s superiority despite his side’s improved second-half performance, while Rayo remain 15th in the table after the defeat.
Real Madrid will next travel to face Elche on Tuesday, while Rayo Vallecano host Espanyol.
