Late-Drama Penalty Sends Madrid to 2-1 Victory Over Vallecano
2 February 2026
Late-Drama Penalty Sparks Madrid Victory
In a heated La Liga clash, Nobel Mendy of Rayo Vallecano fouled Real Madrid's Ibrahim Diaz in stoppage time, and referee Isidro Diaz de Mira awarded a penalty after consulting the on-field action. The contact occurred as Diaz failed to clear the ball, according to the official's interpretation, though some argued it wasn't clear-cut enough for a spot kick.
Kylian Mbappe converted the penalty in the 90+10 minute, sealing a 2-1 win for Real Madrid.
Following the decision, Nobel Mendy posted on social media offering his interpretation of what happened and expressing pride in his teammates, while admitting disappointment about not earning a point.
As the clock ticked, the discourse around the call swelled, leaving Vallecano frustrated and Madrid celebrating a late surge.
Punchline 1: Mbappe paid the rent on stoppage time—the goal was the late fee.
Punchline 2: If drama had a clock, this match would be a calendar year in one night.
