Jude Bellingham was the latest star added to the long list of injuries, and would miss the next few games, including this one against Las Palmas away.
Luka Modrić came back in to start in his place, joined by the likes of Brahim Díaz and Kylian Mbappé. The opposition had Castilla graduates Marvin Park and Javi Muñoz in their line-up. Modrić captained the team for this one.
The first half was the poorest in some time, which is saying something. Real Madrid looked a broken system, whilst Las Palmas took full advantage, scoring a bright opening goal through decent play by Alberto Moleiro. Fede Valverde came close to equalising through a close ranged free-kick, but other than an Antonio Rüdiger wonder strike, Madrid did not create anything. Las Palmas could have been 2-0 if Oli McBurnie got his footing right. Half time, 1-0 to the home side.
The second half didn’t improve things much. The majority of the players were still off pace, and creating very little going forward. Las Palmas continued to look more of a threat – but things took a slight turn when Kylian Mbappé tested the keeper for the first time. Things stayed relatively quiet, until Real Madrid were fortunate to have a penalty given their way against a handball close to goal. Vinícius Júnior stepped up to bury the penalty and give his side a lifeline in an otherwise lifeless showing. This sequence didn’t really spark any life into the game, and the chances continued to go amiss until late on, when substitute Endrick fired the ball over the target. The home side deservedly thought they had pinched it late on with a great strike, only for play to be brought back for a correct offside call on the assist. Marvin Park then almost scored the winner against his former club but couldn’t stretch his leg far enough to tap home. Full time, 1-1 and Real Madrid lucky to gain a point on the road. Not a good showing at all.
