Madrid controlled possession throughout the opening 45 minutes but failed to find the breakthrough against a disciplined Getafe defensive structure. Franco Mastantuono led Madrid’s attack in the first half, with Kylian Mbappé and Rodrygo supporting the offensive efforts.
Mbappé had an early opportunity when Federico Valverde released him through the middle, but defender Djené Dakonam blocked the shot. Rodrygo forced a fingertip save from goalkeeper David Soria with a curling effort from 20 yards in the 27th minute.
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Getafe maintains defensive discipline as scoreless stalemate extends into second half
Getafe employed a five-man defensive formation that proved effective in limiting Madrid’s attacking options. David Soria made multiple saves to keep the match level, denying Brahim Díaz and Rodrygo in separate instances.
Luis Milla delivered a cross from the flank that found Mario Martín, whose left-footed shot narrowly missed the Madrid goal. The chance represented Getafe’s best opportunity of the match.
Madrid registered seven shots on target compared to zero for Getafe through the opening 70 minutes. The visitors struggled to convert territorial advantage into clear scoring chances despite consistent pressure.
Vinicius Junior introduction changes match dynamics as Real Madrid applies increased pressure
Manager Xabi Alonso introduced Vinicius Junior for Franco Mastantuono in the second half. The Brazilian winger’s entry altered the contest’s flow, particularly in drawing fouls from Getafe defenders.Kiko Femenía received a yellow card for a foul on Vinicius Junior. The referee determined the challenge warranted a booking despite protests from the Getafe defender.
Getafe goalkeeper David Soria continued his strong performance, making saves to deny Madrid’s attacking combinations. Thibaut Courtois made a crucial save in stoppage time to preserve the clean sheet for the visitors.
Nyom red card shifts momentum as Mbappé capitalizes for Real Madrid breakthrough
Allan Nyom entered the match as a substitute for Kiko Femenía in the 77th minute. Less than one minute after coming on, Nyom committed a foul on Vinicius Junior and received a straight red card for the challenge.
Mbappé scored seconds after Nyom’s dismissal in the 78th minute, netting his 50th goal of 2025 for club and country. The goal proved to be the match-winner for Real Madrid.
The goal marked a significant milestone for the French forward, who previously achieved the 50-goal mark in 2023 while playing for Paris Saint-Germain.
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Sancris dismissal reduces Getafe to nine players in closing minutes
Álex Sancris received his second yellow card of the match in the 84th minute following a harsh tackle on Vinicius. The dismissal left Getafe with nine players for the final six minutes plus stoppage time.
The Brazilian winger drew multiple fouls throughout his time on the pitch, leading directly to both red cards for the home side. His impact proved decisive despite not starting the match.
Getafe attempted to mount a late comeback despite the numerical disadvantage, relying on long balls and set pieces. The hosts created one late opportunity that required Courtois to make an important save.
Coaching preparations focus on upcoming El Clásico as Madrid reclaims top position
Real Madrid improved to 22 points from eight matches with a record of seven wins, zero draws, and one loss. The victory moved them ahead of Barcelona, who played their Week 9 fixture on Saturday.
Getafe fell to 11 points from eight matches with a record of three wins, two draws, and three losses. The hosts extended their winless streak to four consecutive La Liga matches.
Manager Xabi Alonso’s squad enters the international break atop the La Liga standings. The team faces Barcelona in El Clásico on October 26 at a neutral venue.
Getafe manager José Bordalás saw his defensive game plan nearly succeed before the red cards shifted the match. The home side has not lost at Estadio Coliseum this season prior to Sunday’s result.
Match statistics reveal Real Madrid offensive dominance despite low-scoring affair
Real Madrid recorded 23 first downs and controlled possession for extended periods. The visitors attempted numerous crosses and through balls but found limited space against Getafe’s compact defensive shape.
Getafe finished with five bookings including the two red cards. Madrid committed multiple fouls throughout the contest but avoided any dismissals.
The match featured six minutes of added time at the end of the second half. Referee Cuadrada Fernández issued both red cards to Getafe players in the final 15 minutes of regulation.
Real Madrid secured three points with the narrow victory, maintaining pressure on Barcelona ahead of the season’s first El Clásico. Mbappé’s late goal and Vinicius Junior’s impact as a substitute proved decisive factors.
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Getafe’s defensive effort nearly earned a point before the disciplinary issues undermined their game plan. The hosts face challenges ahead after dropping to 11th in the La Liga table.
