Jude Bellingham of Real Madrid once more proved to be the game-winning goal scorer as he scored in stoppage time to secure a 2-1 victory over Getafe as the Spanish powerhouses made their home debut in LaLiga this season.
The England midfielder, who joined Real for 103 million euros ($110.96 million) plus 30 million in add-ons from Borussia Dortmund, scored five goals in his first four games. He has rapidly established himself as a beacon and fan favorite.
Real are in first place with a maximum of 12 points after four games, five points clear of Cadiz, which defeated Villarreal 3-1 on Friday, Atletico Madrid, Girona, and Barcelona, who still have games this weekend.
Getafe’s Borja Mayoral scored the game’s first goal in the 11th minute following an error by Fran Garcia in defense, and the other team’s David Soria kept them ahead at the break with a series of incredible saves.
He produced a great one-handed save from Luka Modric’s close-range header before making a quick stop with his left foot to block Joselu’s point-blank shot. He first flung himself beyond the box to clear with his shoulder.
Real’s players complained about a number of officiating decisions made in the first half, including one that may have resulted in a penalty but was withheld after the referee checked with VAR and found no foul on Bellingham.
However, Real came out swinging after the break, and Joselu equalized in the 47th minute with a loose ball in the six-yard box.
To the dismay of the nearly sold-out, newly renovated Santiago Bernabeu, Real placed Getafe under constant pressure and struck the woodwork three times.
The stadium, which is nearing completion of a 900 million euro refurbishment project, looks stunning and had its brand-new retractable roof closed on a rainy day in Spain’s capital.
Before LaLiga’s leading scorer Bellingham was in the right place at the right time to score from a rebound off the goalie after the latter was unable to hold onto a long-range strike from Lucas Vazquez, Rodrygo wasted several opportunities and Soria made two more outstanding saves.
“Winning always tastes good,” Joselu said to Real Madrid TV. The Bernabeu crowd gave us a boost; our supporters are amazing. Three golden points were earned by us, giving us four victories in a row.
