A matchup between a team fighting against relegation and the leaders of La Liga presented a perfect chance for Real Madrid to extend their lead over Atletico Madrid and Barcelona with a fifth consecutive win, but the actual game told a different story.

Espanyol caused an upset, as Manolo Gonzalez’s squad defeated the champions at the RCDU stadium, with Carlos Romero scoring just five minutes before the final whistle – resulting in a 1-0 victory.

The “blue and white” of Barcelona not only escaped the relegation zone but also impacted the title race significantly.

With today’s win over Mallorca (2:0), Atletico Madrid closed the gap to just one point behind Real Madrid, whom they will face next. Barcelona has the opportunity to cut the lead to just four points when they play Alaves tomorrow.

Real Madrid pressed hard in the Catalan capital, but none of their star players could find the back of the net. At one point, Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Rodrigo, and Brahim Diaz were all on the field, yet Espanyol seemed to have an answer for each of them.

While Real was desperately seeking a winner in the dying moments, Espanyol launched a counterattack that was lightning quick – Antonio Roca intercepted the ball, Giofre continued forward, and Omar el Hilali found Carlos Romero at the “far post”, who finished flawlessly. Carlos Romero did not miss the opportunity.

Even though Espanyol may not be having a stellar season, they have transformed their home ground into a stronghold, remaining undefeated at the stadium for the last six matches, dating back to their encounter against Sevilla in October.

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