Real Madrid beat Racing Santander 3-0 despite penalty controversy

Real Madrid extended their winning run with a 3-0 victory over Racing Santander at El Sardinero, moving to within three points of La Liga leaders Barcelona and strengthening their position in third place.

Jose Mourinho’s side were seeking a sixth consecutive win after Barcelona had beaten Alaves 6-1. Real Madrid lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Thibaut Courtois in goal and Arda Guler, Jude Bellingham, Yan Diomande and Kylian Mbappe forming the attacking unit.

The visitors took control from the opening minutes and were awarded a controversial penalty in the 11th minute. Mbappe ran into the area after receiving Diomande’s pass before being brought down by Prati.

Mbappe took responsibility and sent a powerful low finish to the right of goalkeeper Agerizabala to give Real Madrid the lead.

Racing almost responded immediately, but Courtois produced an excellent save to deny Iker Luqui’s effort in the 13th minute.

Real Madrid doubled their advantage nine minutes later. Mbappe began the move before the ball was worked to Arda Guler, whose pass allowed Bellingham to complete the team attack with a composed finish into the net.

Racing’s problems increased when Alvaro Mantilla was forced off with an injury. Real Madrid then added a third goal in the 36th minute through Diomande.

The ball reached the forward after Racing had cleared a corner taken by Guler, and Diomande struck a fierce effort from outside the penalty area into the top corner.

Madrid ease off after the break

Real Madrid remained in control after half-time but did not maintain the same attacking intensity they had shown in the opening 45 minutes. Racing attempted to take advantage of the change in tempo and looked for a way back into the match.

Zabiri tested Courtois with a low shot in the 54th minute, while Mbappe went close at the other end six minutes later when his powerful effort struck the left post.

Diomande also tried to add to the score, but his attempt failed to find the target.

Racing were briefly given hope in the 75th minute when the referee appeared ready to award a penalty after the ball struck Aurelien Tchouameni’s hand inside the Real Madrid area. However, the Video Assistant Referee intervened and the decision was overturned after it was established that the ball had first hit the French player’s foot.

Mourinho made several late changes, introducing Diaz, Eduardo Camavinga and Endrick, but there were no further goals.

The result gave Real Madrid three important points, kept them third in the table and reduced the gap to Barcelona to three points.

Real Madrid are listed to face AEK Athens in the Champions League on 04 November 2026, before hosting Malaga in La Liga on 07 November 2026. Racing Santander are also listed for a La Liga fixture on 07 November 2026.