Even with a disappointing performance by Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid can always count on Gareth Bale to save the day. The Portuguese player was sent off after 82 minutes, leaving the game 1-1. Five minutes later, the Welsh wingman traded a penalty kick in, giving Los Blancos three more points in La Liga's title race.
It was not an easy game for Real Madrid, who fell behind on the scoreboard two minutes after the game began. Nabil Ghilas scored a penalty awarded after a handball by Sergio Ramos, making Ancelotti's team struggle to tie the game. Karim Benzema took advantage of a loose ball inside the 5-yard box to make it 1-1 before halftime.
After the break, Cordoba enjoyed the best chances to regain the lead, but Los Merengues were lucky enough not to concede any more goals. Just when the game had entered its final ten minutes, Cristiano Ronaldo lost his temper and kicked Edimar. Then, the Portuguese striker hit another defender with his fist before being sent off by the ref.
When he was leaving the pitch, the Ballon D'Or winner mocked Cordoba's fans pointing out the "World Champions" badge worn by Real Madrid on their uniform, making them even more unhappy.
With Ronaldo out, it seemed Real Madrid would leave El Nuevo Arcangel Stadium with a draw, but Gareth Bale produced the game-winning goal after a free kick was handballed by Cartabia, giving the Welshman the chance to score.
After the game, Cristiano Ronaldo used his Twitter feed to apologize for hitting his opponent..
"I apologize to everyone and especially Edimar for my unthoughtful action in today's game."
Pido disculpas a todos y especialmente a Edimar por mi acto irreflexivo en el partido de hoy.
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) January 24, 2015
Of course, the talk of the day was Cristiano Ronaldo's red card. What did fans have to say about his behaviour? Scroll down and find out!
Cristiano Ronaldo, expulsado http://t.co/wTmsY35Zte pic.twitter.com/H1rz1PxTjh
— Mundo Deportivo (@mundodeportivo) January 24, 2015
Cristiano Ronaldo : Skill ✔ Dribble ✔ Shot ✔ Hair Style ✔ Attitude ❌ pic.twitter.com/GyXhtgiCVD
— Football Tweets (@FutballTweets) January 24, 2015
Red card Cristiano Ronaldo. Totally deserved. How can you do that Ronaldo.
— SocialRMadrid (@SocialRMadrid) January 24, 2015
Red Card for Cristiano Ronaldo!
— Football Tweets (@FutballTweets) January 24, 2015
Shambolic from CR7. There is only one Ronaldo, rest are Cristianos.
— Sir Jenkinson (@theEpicGooner) January 24, 2015
Fair play Ronaldo for getting sent off so Bale can take free kicks, win a penalty from hand ball from one and then score the penalty. #CR7
— TomMellor (@MellorFootball) January 24, 2015
CR7 did have his shirt pulled but uneccesary reaction. Poor conduct. #CORRMA pic.twitter.com/go2OZzkUqr
— M.A.J (@UltraSuristic) January 24, 2015
What has happened to CR7 pic.twitter.com/XtL47H5eQC
— ❤️Awesome1CR72015❤️ (@Awesome1CR72015) January 24, 2015