Osasuna Triumphs Over Real Madrid In Home Clash At Estadio El Sadar

Despite Vinicius Jr. capping off an emotional week with his fifth goal in four appearances, his efforts were not enough to save Real Madrid from a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Osasuna — a result that hands Barcelona a significant advantage in the race for the La Liga title.

Real were looking to go five points clear, but a first-half Ante Budimir penalty and a late Raul Garcia strike condemned Alvaro Arbeloa to a first league defeat in six games as manager.

Vinicius drew a red card in the 73rd minute, days after he alleged he was racially abused during the Champions League victory over Benfica.

The Brazil forward had a quiet first half during which his side were fortunate not to concede more than once.

Thibaut Courtois produced a stunning one-handed save to deny Budimir from close range, before the Croatia forward hit the post with a header.

Referee Alejandro Quintero Gonzalez booked Budimir for simulation late in the first half, but replays showed Courtois stood on the striker’s foot as he rounded him.

The referee awarded a penalty after consulting the pitchside monitor, and Budimir sent Courtois the wrong way.

The introduction of Trent Alexander-Arnold in the 64th minute seemed to turn the second half in Real’s favour.

The England defender immediately created an opportunity for Vinicius with a cross-field pass, but the forward’s goalbound effort was blocked.

Vinicius – whose every touch was whistled by the home fans – made amends minutes later when he converted from Federico Valverde’s low cross into the penalty area, his first away league goal in almost five months.

Kylian Mbappe found the top corner from close range but was denied by the offside flag.

Osasuna substitute Garcia suffered the same fate in the 90th minute when he skipped past a challenge and finished brilliantly past Courtois from an acute angle, but the video assistant referee (VAR) concluded he was onside and the goal was given.

Osasuna’s first league victory against Real since 2011 moves the Pamplona club up to ninth in the table.

Madrid remains two points clear of Barcelona, having played one game more. Hansi Flick’s side would go top with a home win against Levante on Sunday (15:15 GMT).

BBC Sport