Real Madrid handed first loss of the season by RB Leipzig: What went wrong for the UCL winners?

RB Leipzig became the first team to defeat Real Madrid this season, with a 3-2 win over the defending Champions League winners. The Red Bull Arena saw the home team become the first to score twice in the opening quarter of a game against Real Madrid. 

Excellent finishes from defender Josko Gvardiol and star attacker Christopher Nkunku helped the Bundesliga side secure an early advantage. A goal from Timo Werner in the 81st minute helped Leipzig regain their lead and take all three points from the encounter. 

Real Madrid’s unbeaten run finally comes to an end 

Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo scored for Carlo Ancelotti’s side last night, with the latter scoring from the spot late in the game. While Vinicius became Real Madrid’s top scorer of the season so far with eight goals across all competitions, it wasn’t enough to at least salvage a point.

As summed up by Thibaut Courtois, Real Madrid were ‘asleep’ in the game. They were seemingly outplayed by the hosts from the opening whistle. And fans have blamed Carlo Ancelotti for not rotating enough, with Vinicius Jr, Toni Kroos and Rodrygo starting once again. 

While it is no doubt a blow to the team, it was bound to happen at some point. And with a minor setback, the team can regroup and play their way back to the top once more. Their next game sees them take on Girona on Sunday in La Liga.