Real Madrid won 1-0 against Alaves in La Liga on Thursday thanks to a stoppage-time header from Lucas Vazquez, while defender Nacho Fernandez was sent off for a sliding tackle. The victory helped Real Madrid to reach the top of the table on goal difference, tied on 45 points with Girona, who were held to a 1-1 draw at Real Betis earlier in the day. Barcelona is in the third spot with 38 points. With the clock in second-half injury time, it appeared that Girona would lead the Spanish top flight into 2024 due to Madrid’s draw, but the 32-year-old winger had other plans.

A lackluster Real Madrid struggled to create barely any chances and appeared to be heading for a dreary goalless draw. However, after losing Nacho to a straight red card in the 54th minute, Madrid began to show signs of life and eventually scored when experienced Germany midfielder Toni Kroos whipped in a corner to Vazquez, who headed home from the crowded box.

The leaders of Real Madrid’s attack this season, Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo, were kept at bay for the majority of the game in a toothless performance by Carlo Ancelotti’s team at Mendizorroza Stadium. Neither club was able to generate many high-scoring opportunities.

Ancelotti was forced to replace Luka Modric with midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, who took Nacho’s spot in the middle of the defense after Nacho was sent off. Madrid has been playing with an injury-ravaged roster, particularly in defense. David Alaba became the third Real Madrid player to damage an anterior cruciate ligament on Sunday. Eder Milito and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois sustained the same type of injury. On Thursday, Antonio Rudiger started alongside Nacho in defense, and Rodrygo was assisted off the pitch with another injury during stoppage time.

I think we deserved to win in the end. Lucas scored today and got an assist against Villarreal. He’s little, but he’s dangerous. We’re very happy with tonight, it was a difficult night, and thanks to the huge commitment of the team, Ancelotti said after the match.

Madrid has conceded only 11 goals this season, the fewest of any Spanish league club, while Alaves, in 16th position and three points clear of the relegation zone, lost their third consecutive encounter. Madrid’s next league game is against Mallorca at home on January 3, Wednesday. On January 2, Alaves will pay a visit to Real Sociedad.