LaLiga: Real Madrid beat Rayo Vallecano as Mbappe scores twice

Real Madrid produced a dominant first-half display to beat Rayo Vallecano 4-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu, moving level on points with Barcelona in the league standings.

The hosts effectively settled the contest before half-time, taking a commanding 3-0 lead into the break after an impressive opening 45 minutes.

Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Álvaro Carreras was brought down inside the area. Carreras then got his name on the scoresheet himself, finishing off a quick attacking move after making a powerful run forward from left-back.

Jude Bellingham added Madrid's third before the interval, capitalizing on more defensive uncertainty from Rayo as the home side continued to dominate proceedings.

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Rayo Vallecano showed greater attacking intent after the restart and created opportunities to get back into the match.

Just two minutes into the second half, Díaz struck the post with a long-range effort after Courtois had denied him in the first half.

Rayo eventually found a way through when Sergio Camello pounced on a defensive mistake from Madrid and calmly slotted the ball past Thibaut Courtois to reduce the deficit.

The visitors continued to battle and finished with an expected goals (xG) figure of 1.13, but Madrid gradually regained control as the second half progressed.

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Audero was called into action several times, with Dumfries and Arda Güler both testing the Rayo goalkeeper before Mbappé struck again.

The France international completed his brace with a powerful right-footed finish across goal, taking Real Madrid's total to four and helping them finish with an xG of 2.70.

The victory takes Real Madrid level with Barcelona on points, although they have played one game more.

Madrid will now turn their attention to their next league fixture away to Elche, while Rayo Vallecano will look to respond when they host Espanyol.