SPANISH LA LIGA: Joselu braces makes Real Madrid top of La Liga
Securing a goal in both halves, Joselu propelled Real Madrid to victory over local rivals Getafe, allowing them to reclaim the top spot in La Liga.
The former Stoke striker, Joselu, nodded in a goal from Lucas Vazquez’s cross, providing Carlo Ancelotti’s team with the lead after 14 minutes. An adept finish early in the second half secured the victory.
Despite Mason Greenwood and Borja Mayoral hitting the post for Getafe, Real Madrid managed to maintain their lead, moving two points ahead of Girona. Getafe’s defeat places them in 10th position in the league standings.
With Jude Bellingham back in action following a suspension, Madrid initiated a strong start, with Joselu’s header finding the net past Getafe goalkeeper David Soria after a well-executed play by Vazquez on the right.
Although the home side held off Los Blancos for the rest of the first half, they posed little threat, leading Jose Bordalas to make a triple substitution at halftime. The move nearly paid off as Greenwood, positioned on the right, cut inside, and his near-post attempt narrowly missed, bouncing off the post.
However, this spurred Madrid into action, and they swiftly increased their lead as Joselu executed a precise finish from the edge of the box, receiving a pass from Vinicius Jr.
Shortly thereafter, the Brazilian had a golden chance to secure a third goal. Joselu, set up brilliantly by Bellingham, chose to pass unselfishly, putting Vinicius in a one-on-one situation with goalkeeper Soria. However, Vinicius, after cleverly getting Soria to commit with his first touch, unexpectedly shot straight at the goalkeeper’s legs, squandering the opportunity with the goal gaping.
Getafe had a chance to stage a late comeback, but Mayoral struck the ball against the post after Luis Milla won possession on the edge of the visitors’ penalty area. Madrid successfully navigated the remaining minutes, handing the hosts only their second home league defeat of the season.
Madrid’s focus now shifts to another upcoming derby against Atletico on Sunday.