Real Madrid come from behind to beat impressive Córdoba

Real Madrid CF claimed a 1-2 win over Córdoba on matchday 20 of the Liga BBVA. Despite the home side taking the lead, los blancos fought hard to earn a victory that keeps them top of the table.

Córdoba took an unexpected lead in the 3rd minute of the encounter. After a handball from Sergio Ramos inside the area, the referee pointed to the spot and Ghilas stepped up to beat Iker Casillas from twelve yards. The hosts then continued to make life difficult for Madrid, hurting the visitors on the counter-attack as they put on a resolute display against one of the most dangerous teams in the Liga BBVA.  

But Real Madrid took full advantage of a corner delivered by James, which was headed by Gareth Bale at the near post for an alert Karim Benzema to bury the loose ball and make it 1-1. However, Miroslav Djukić's men continued to stand up to the capital outfit, who were unconvincing in defence at the Estadio Municipal 'Nuevo Arcángel'.

In the second half, a bold Córdoba outfit again looked to surprise their guests with good chances for Fede Cartabria and Bebé, the clearest opportunity then falling to Florin, who made the most of a poor Varane back-pass to lift the ball over Casillas but against the crossbar. In an intense final period, Cristiano Ronaldo and Cartabia were sent off, before Bale’s penalty tipped the balance in favour of Carlo Ancelotti’s men and saw them claim the three points.