Orelian Tachouméni, a midfielder for Real Madrid, scored a late header after coming off the bench to give his team a 2-1 victory over Las Palmas and send them to the top of La Liga on Saturday.
In Short
Madrid in Lead
After 21 games, Carlo Ancelotti’s club is presently leading the standings with 54 points, two points clear of second-place Girona, who will take on Celta Vigo in their 22nd league match on Sunday.
In the first half, Real Madrid struggled without their top scorer Jude Bellingham, who was suspended after receiving his fifth yellow card in the last win against Almería. Las Palmas, sitting in the 8th position with just four points behind European spots, posed a solid defense, troubling Real’s forwards Vinícius Júnior and Rodrigo, who were missing the influence of Bellingham in the midfield.
Tchouameni’s pass 👏🏾, Vini’s shoulder goal!
— 𝔻𝕒𝕞𝕚𝕚𝕄𝕒𝕣𝕔𝕠™🦅 (@damii_marco) January 23, 2024
Champagne football!🥂🤍pic.twitter.com/MfrcQZm5RR
Although Real Madrid controlled possession, they struggled to create clear opportunities. Las Palmas took the lead in the 53rd minute when Javi Muñoz tapped in from close range after a well-placed cross from Sandro Ramírez behind Antonio Rüdiger.
Real Madrid were awakened by this goal, and Vinícius Júnior constantly placed pressure on Las Palmas’ defense. He missed a good chance from close range in the 64th minute, but redeemed himself a minute later when Eduardo Camavinga delivered an excellent pass, allowing Vinícius Júnior to equalize with a well-taken shot.
Tachouméni’s Header(Watch video)
Real continued to press, and in the 84th minute, substitute Tachouméni scored the winning goal with a powerful header from a Toni Kroos corner.
Enjoy this Tchouameni goal Abdesh 👍🏼pic.twitter.com/GvobbWS1sf
— Judinho (@JudeRM5) January 28, 2024
Ancelotti, in a post-match press conference, praised the impact of the bench, saying, “Having an inspired bench is very good; it often makes significant contributions. It’s a tool we have. I look at the bench, and I have many good players who give me various options to change the game.”
Vinícius Júnior and Orelian Tachouméni’s goals secured a 2-1 victory for Real Madrid against Las Palmas in the Canary Islands group, extending their lead in the Spanish League on Saturday.
After the first-half deadlock and Las Palmas taking the lead, midfielder Javi Muñoz in the 53rd minute, Vinícius Júnior leveled the score in the 66th minute following Eduardo Camavinga’s excellent assist. Then, Tachouméni completed the turnaround with a header in the 84th minute.
Before their visit to Celta Vigo on Sunday, Madrid is now two points ahead of Girona. Las Palmas remains in the 8th position.
Madrid has allowed a league-low 14 goals this season, with Las Palmas sitting next with 19. Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid’s top scorer, was absent due to suspension, and Girona’s Artem Dovbyk leads the league with 14 goals, tied with Bellingham.
Real Madrid in 2024: A Tale of Two Cities (and Maybe a Third)
Alright, Madridistas, let’s talk about your beloved Los Blancos! It’s been a rollercoaster ride so far in 2024, with twists, turns, and enough drama to fill a telenovela. Buckle up, because I’m about to dive into the whirlwind that is Real Madrid’s season so far.
Top of the League (But Girona Says Hello)
First things first, the good news: Madrid are sitting pretty at the top of La Liga! After watching the trophy slip through their fingers last season, Carlo’s crew has come back with a vengeance. They’ve been solid, consistent, and Vinicius Jr. is on fire (more on that later). But here’s the wrinkle: Girona, a team that many (okay, maybe everyone) expected to be battling relegation, has been breathing down their necks all season. The lead isn’t comfortable, and the pressure is on. Can Madrid hold off the unexpected Catalan challengers? Only time will tell.
Champions League: Business as Usual (For Now)
Europe’s biggest stage, no problem for Real Madrid. They dominated their Champions League group, cruising through with six wins from six. But the real test begins now. The knockout stages are where legends are made, and where Madrid’s European pedigree will be truly tested. Can they replicate their magic from last season and lift the trophy again? Remember, they’re the kings of the comeback, so don’t count them out yet.
Transfer Talk and Whispers of Mbappe
Ah, the transfer window. What’s a football season without a good dose of speculation? The rumor mill has been in overdrive, with Kylian Mbappe’s name constantly swirling around the Bernabéu. Will he, won’t he? The saga continues, fueling endless debates and driving Madridistas crazy. One thing’s for sure, his signing would be a game-changer. But it’s all just ifs and buts at this point. We’ll have to wait and see how this one goes.
The Vini Jr. Show: Stealing the Spotlight
Remember when everyone was questioning Vinicius Jr.’s place in the team? Well, he’s shut those mouths up big time. He’s been on fire this season, scoring goals, creating chances, and becoming the talisman Madrid desperately needed. His confidence is sky-high, and his partnership with Rodrygo is pure magic. The future is bright for this young Brazilian, and Madridistas are lucky to have him.
Ancelotti’s Enigma: Stay or Go?
Manager Carlo Ancelotti has been a bit of a puzzle this season. His tactics have been effective, but there have been moments of frustration. The rumors about his future are clear now, he has renewed his contract till 2026.
So, there you have it, folks. Real Madrid’s 2024 has been a mixed bag of excitement, drama, and maybe a touch of chaos. They’re top of the league, dominating in Europe, but facing unexpected challenges and transfer saga headaches. One thing’s for sure, it’s never dull with this club. As Madridistas, we wouldn’t have it any other way. Buckle up, porque esto se pone bueno!
