A good Levante UD falls short on details against Real Madrid

Levante UD played a very serious match at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium that was decided by details. Luís Castro's team had a good first half, in which they had several chances to take the lead, but after the break, a penalty gave life to the home team. Mbappé, from the penalty spot, and Asencio scored the goals of the match.

During the first minutes, the home team took possession of the ball and tried to reach the Levante area. For their part, the Levante players were well-positioned and the team was committed to defensive tasks. Luís Castro's team had the first dangerous approach in the 13th minute with a free kick taken by Pablo Martínez from the edge of the area after Carlos Álvarez fell in that zone. The ball hit the wall and, after the rebound, the Levante number '10' sent it over the bar. Levante UD went on the attack again minutes later after Iván Romero stole the ball and aimed for the rival goal. He combined with Kareem Tunde, who then passed to Etta Eyong. The forward failed to connect with the ball in front of the goal.

As the minutes passed, the Levante players felt more comfortable on the pitch and took advantage of their moments with the ball to get closer to the opposing goal. Pablo Martínez tried his luck after the first half-hour with a shot from outside the area that went over the crossbar. Near halftime, the Levante captain tried his luck again with a free kick, and the ball went just wide of the left post.

After the restart, Real Madrid sought the opposing goal with greater intensity. Ten minutes in, Ryan was forced to intervene to stop Güler's shot from the edge of the area, and shortly after, the referee awarded a penalty to the home team. Mbappé took the penalty and did not miss. The penalty gave life to the Madrid team, and they tried to take advantage of the moment to extend the lead. They succeeded when Asencio scored with a header. Later, Ryan appeared again to block Mbappé's shot.

Levante UD recovered from the blow and did not give up. They sought a goal with a good combination play between Manu Sánchez, Iker Losada, Pablo Martínez, Carlos Álvarez, and Iván Romero, which ended with the latter's shot going over the crossbar. Real Madrid was not satisfied either and approached the rival goal with the aim of sealing the match. Mastantuono sent the ball to the crossbar, and later, Ryan denied chances from Bellingham, Vini Jr., and Mbappé.

In the end, the Levante players returned empty-handed from Madrid despite the good feelings and opportunities, especially in the first half.