Raúl Asensio’s Absence Overshadows Real Madrid’s Frustrating 3-3 Draw Against Rayo Vallecano

Real Madrid endured a dramatic 3-3 stalemate against Rayo Vallecano, a game filled with highs and lows that highlighted the team’s ongoing defensive struggles.

After trailing 2-0 in the first half, the Blancos staged a remarkable comeback with goals from Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, and Rodrygo Goes.

However, defensive lapses allowed Rayo to snatch an equalizer, leaving Real Madrid fans frustrated and raising questions about Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical decisions.

Defensive Choices Under Scrutiny

One notable talking point was the absence of Raúl Asensio, the 21-year-old defender who has impressed since his promotion from the reserves. Despite his strong performances, including solid displays in the Champions League, Ancelotti opted for Aurélien Tchouaméni in central defense alongside Antonio Rüdiger. Unfortunately, the experiment backfired, as Tchouaméni struggled, contributing to the defensive chaos that led to the third goal.

The full-backs, Fran García and Lucas Vázquez, were equally culpable, committing errors that resulted in Rayo’s first two goals. In contrast, Asensio, who watched the debacle unfold from the bench, boasts an impressive defensive record: only four goals conceded in five games when he starts. This statistic underscores his reliability and raises doubts about Ancelotti’s decision to sideline him.

A Missed Opportunity

The draw not only cost Real Madrid crucial points but also allowed Barcelona to maintain their grip on the La Liga summit. Fans lamented the decision to bench Vinícius Júnior and Eduardo Camavinga at kickoff, arguing that their presence could have changed the game’s dynamics.

Despite the disappointment, Ancelotti remained defiant, stating, “We fought hard, but defensive mistakes cost us. We’ll regroup and focus on the next match.” However, Madridistas are calling for the return of Asensio to the starting lineup, seeing him as the ideal partner for Rüdiger in the absence of Éder Militão.

What Lies Ahead

With Real Madrid still competing on multiple fronts, including an upcoming Intercontinental Cup final against Pachuca, Ancelotti faces mounting pressure to stabilize his defense. Asensio’s exclusion has become a contentious issue, and the young defender’s reintegration could be crucial for Madrid’s aspirations this season.

The Vallecas clash may have ended in frustration, but it also served as a stark reminder: Real Madrid’s success hinges on finding the right defensive balance—and Raúl Asensio could hold the key.