Bellingham sent off after full-time in Real draw against Valencia

Vinicius Jr. netted twice at Mestalla, a venue where he endured racist taunts last season, aiding Real Madrid in clawing back from a 2-0 deficit to secure a draw and extend their lead to seven points atop La Liga.

In the dying moments of the match, Jude Bellingham believed he had clinched victory with a close-range header, only for referee Gil Manzano to halt play before the cross reached him.

In response to the decision, Real players and staff encircled Manzano, resulting in Bellingham’s dismissal after his involvement in the protests. Bellingham had returned to the side after a three-week absence due to injury.

Valencia midfielder Mouctar Diakhaby sustained a concerning leg injury in a collision with Aurelien Tchouameni late in the game, necessitating his removal from the field on a stretcher, leaving players visibly distressed.

Hugo Duro broke the deadlock for Valencia, capitalizing on Fran Perez’s deflected shot to notch his 12th goal of the season. Shortly after, Roman Yaremchuk intercepted Dani Carvajal’s pass to Andriy Lunin before rounding the keeper and slotting home into an unguarded net.

Vinicius equalized from close range after goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili failed to handle Carvajal’s delivery. Following his goal, the Brazilian, who had experienced racial abuse and a subsequent dismissal during his previous visit to the stadium in May, celebrated by defiantly raising his fist towards the Valencia fans.

Valencia have maintained an unbeaten home record since September and seemed content to defend their lead after halftime. However, Real Madrid pressed for an equalizer, with Bellingham and Toni Kroos coming close.

Real’s persistence paid off when Vinicius connected with Brahim Diaz’s cross to score a header at the far post.

Valencia were initially awarded a penalty when referee Manzano deemed Nacho had fouled Duro, but the decision was overturned following a video review.

The draw extended Real Madrid’s undefeated streak in the league to 21 games and widened their lead at the top, although second-placed Girona have a game in hand.

Valencia played their first match since a tragic fire in two apartment blocks in the city resulted in at least 10 fatalities on February 23rd.