Sørloth's Four Goals Deny Real Madrid Victory

Villarreal's Alexander Sorloth celebrates after scoring

Carlo Ancelotti, despite Real Madrid securing the LaLiga EA Sports title weeks ago, expressed frustration following their inability to secure a victory against Villarreal in a thrilling 4-4 draw on Sunday.

Ancelotti opted to rotate his squad for the fixture, with Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo rested on the bench, while Arda Guler was given a rare start. Guler seized the opportunity to shine, finding the net after just 14 minutes with a well-struck low drive past goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen.

By the half-hour mark, Real Madrid extended their lead to 2-0 when Lucas Vazquez delivered a precise cross from the right, which Joselu met with a superb header, marking his 18th goal across all competitions this season.

Villarreal capitalized on an error from Dani Ceballos, who conceded possession cheaply in his own box, allowing Alexander Sorloth to capitalize and nod the ball past Andriy Lunin from Yerson Mosquera's cross.

However, Real Madrid swiftly restored their two-goal advantage a minute later, with Lucas Vazquez finishing off a fluid attacking move involving Luka Modric and Brahim Diaz.

Deadly Sorloth strikes back

Lucas resumed his role as the orchestrator, providing the assist for the fourth goal just before halftime.

The veteran midfielder delivered a pinpoint pass to Guler, who secured his second goal of the evening with a well-placed shot from a difficult angle.

Guler's impressive performance sees him tally six goals in just 10 league appearances, showcasing his potential value to Ancelotti's squad next season.

Following Marcelino's halftime adjustments, which included a triple substitution, Villarreal initiated a remarkable comeback.

Sorloth completed his brace with another headed goal in the 48th minute, before completing his hat-trick just three minutes later, outmuscling Eder Militao before slotting the ball past Lunin.

The hosts continued their onslaught, with Gerard Moreno orchestrating a swift counter-attack that resulted in Sorloth finding the net once again, registering his fourth goal against Real Madrid in just 17 minutes.

Despite Ancelotti's late substitutions in search of a winning goal, both teams ultimately settled for a draw. Sorloth emerged as the standout performer, leading the Pichichi race with an impressive tally of 23 goals in LaLiga.