Real Madrid snatches 3-2 win at Elche with stoppage-time goal by Carlos Espi

Real Madrid avoided a costly slip in the sixth round of La Liga as Carlos Espi struck in the first minute of stoppage time to secure a 3-2 away win at Elche.

The visitors took an early grip on the match when the ball ended up in the net in the 25th minute after an unfortunate reaction from home goalkeeper Matías Dituro, recorded as an own goal. Eight minutes later Kylian Mbappé extended the advantage to 2-0 and it looked as if the result would be straightforward for José Mourinho's side.

Elche rallied after the break and pulled one back through Abiel Osorio in the 71st minute, restoring hope among the home supporters.

Real failed to calm the contest and the hosts were rewarded when Fernando Niño levelled in the 83rd minute to make it 2-2 and spark loud celebrations in the stadium, leaving Mourinho's team hanging on in the closing stages.

Espi ends the drama

With the match seemingly poised for a draw, Carlos Espi produced the decisive moment in the first minute of stoppage time to hand Real the three points. The young forward has already delivered a last-gasp winner this season against Espanyol and repeated the feat at Elche.

The victory kept Real Madrid from dropping two valuable points after surrendering a near-hour-long lead and provided a dramatic late turnaround in a match they had largely controlled.

Photo: press material from the event