Real Madrid salvaged a 2-2 draw against Elche after the international break, as goals from Huijsen and Bellingham secured a point in a dramatic match heavily influenced by former Castilla players.
According to a report from Managing Madrid, Real Madrid were held to a 2–2 draw by Elche in a surprising and dramatic La Liga encounter after the international break. The match saw strong performances from former Madrid Castilla players on both sides.
Elche struck first through Aleix Febas, another ex-Castilla graduate, who put the hosts ahead after good work from teammate Germán Valera.
The early goal underscored Elche’s ambition and quality, particularly from players familiar with Madrid’s youth setup. (Managing Madrid)
Real Madrid struggled to find cohesion in the first half despite some experimentation — goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois captained the side, and Trent Alexander-Arnold started on the right, while Rodrygo featured in attack. (Managing Madrid)
In the second half, Madrid finally hit back. Dean Huijsen, yet another product of La Fábrica, equalised from a corner, providing a momentary reprieve.
But Elche responded shortly after: Álvaro Rodríguez, who also came through the Madrid system, produced a superb solo effort to restore their lead. (Managing Madrid)
Jude Bellingham then stepped up for Madrid, driving forward and finishing decisively to draw his side level once more.
However, the match ended on a sour note for Elche’s Víctor Chust — another Castilla alumnus — as he received a red card late for a late challenge, squashing any hope of a Madrid winner. (Managing Madrid)
The 2–2 draw raises further questions over Real Madrid’s consistency, while also highlighting the continuing influence and impact of former academy stars playing against their old club.