Espi strikes late as Real Madrid edge Elche 3-2

ELCHE, Spain — Real Madrid squandered a two-goal lead before substitute Carlos Espi scored in stoppage time to secure a 3-2 victory at Elche in LaLiga on Tuesday.

Real took the lead in the 25th minute when Arda Guler’s whipped free kick struck the woodwork and rebounded into the net off Elche goalkeeper Matias Dituro.

They doubled their advantage eight minutes later when Yan Diomande’s cross from the right found Kylian Mbappe unmarked, and the France international finished to make it 2-0.

Elche had plenty of possession but struggled to create clear openings before halftime. Real, however, lost control of the game after the break as the hosts increased the pressure.

Abiel Osorio pulled one back for Elche in the 71st minute, heading Lucas Cepeda’s cross into the net for his first goal for the club.

Real failed to restore their first-half control and were punished again seven minutes from time when Marc Cucurella lost possession deep inside his own half, allowing Fer Nino to finish and level the score.

Real responded in the closing stages and Mbappe broke behind the Elche defence before squaring for Espi, who tapped the ball into an empty net in the 91st minute.

The victory moved Real Madrid level with Barcelona at the top of LaLiga on 15 points, although Barcelona have a game in hand. Elche remain bottom with two points and without a win.

Real now turn their attention to Sunday’s derby against Atletico Madrid, with the late win keeping them alongside Barcelona at the top of the standings.