Mansion Sports – The match between Elche and Real Madrid in Week 13 of the 2025/2026 La Liga season delivered intense drama at the Estadio Manuel Martinez Valero.

Real Madrid, seeking to regain momentum, encountered another setback and were forced to settle for a single point from their visit to Elche.

The contest unfolded with high tension from the outset, yet the score remained 0–0 at halftime. The breakthrough arrived early in the second half when Aleix Febas put Elche ahead in the 53rd minute.

Madrid managed to equalize through Dean Huijsen in the 78th minute, only for Alvaro Rodriguez to restore Elche’s lead in the 84th minute. Jude Bellingham then rescued Madrid from defeat with a goal in the 87th minute.

Elche ended the match with ten players after Victor Chust received a red card in the 90+7 minute, but they held firm to secure a 2–2 draw. Madrid’s negative run continued, marking their third consecutive match without a win.

Mounting Pressure on Madrid and Missed Opportunities

Real Madrid entered the match under significant pressure following disappointing results before the international break, including a 0–1 loss to Liverpool and a 0–0 draw against Rayo Vallecano.

Xabi Alonso made several rotations, starting Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dani Ceballos, and Rodrygo Goes.

Trent nearly provided an early assist with a curling delivery toward Kylian Mbappe, yet the French forward was unable to beat Inaki Pena in a one-on-one situation.

Mbappe wasted another clear chance shortly afterward. Madrid’s inefficiency in finishing allowed Elche to grow in confidence.

The home side constructed a well-organized attack that culminated in Aleix Febas scoring in the 53rd minute, taking advantage of a lapse in Madrid’s defensive structure.

Madrid’s Response and Bellingham’s Saving Goal

Madrid attempted to respond by increasing their attacking intensity. Their efforts paid off in the 78th minute when Dean Huijsen capitalized on a loose ball following a corner situation.

However, the momentum swiftly shifted again. Alvaro Rodriguez—who once developed in La Fabrica’s youth system—beat Thibaut Courtois six minutes later, sending the home supporters into celebration.

Jude Bellingham once more proved to be Real Madrid’s savior this season. In the 87th minute, he reacted quickly to a rebound from Kylian Mbappe’s attempt and restored parity.

The goal reinforced Bellingham’s vital influence in midfield, particularly in moments when the team faces adversity.

Elche’s Disciplined Defense and Madrid’s Lost Momentum

Even though Elche were reduced to ten men following Victor Chust’s red card in stoppage time, Madrid still could not find a winning goal.

Their repeated attempts were halted by Elche’s disciplined defensive structure, which remained solid until the final whistle. bThe draw extended Madrid’s winless streak to three matches.

Despite this setback, Los Blancos remained at the top of the La Liga standings with a narrow lead over Barcelona.

However, the inconsistent performances displayed in matches such as this one highlight the pressing need for Xabi Alonso to identify a solution.

Match Statistics: Elche vs Real Madrid

Table of match statistics