By Katie Catherall
Real Madrid looked set to earn an easy win over Villarreal after leading by 4-1 at half-time, but stunning second half comeback saw the hosts secure a memorable 4-4 draw on Sunday evening.
Carlo Ancelotti travelled to Villarreal with the expectations of a cruising victory after securing the La Liga title, but was delivered a U-turn performance as the hosts fought back in the last 45 minutes to test the champions.
If any Villarreal fans left the stadium at the midway point, they will have rapidly tried to re-enter as soon as play resumed.
Goals came early for Madrid, with Brahim Diaz finding Arda Guler to mark the first strike of the game. The advantage was doubled just shortly after as Joselu nodded a strong finish into the back of the net.
Norwegian superstar Alexander Sorloth was the next to etch his name on to the scoresheet, however, marking a fate that would soon become far too familiar for Madrid.
Lucas Vazquez was able to respond to the Villarreal efforts just seconds later though, firing a strike home. Guler came next, adding a second to his name in stoppage time.
Madrid looked set for a smooth-sailing victory and headed into the dressing room with a grin on their faces but, upon return to the pitch, Sorloth decided one goal was just not good enough, and began tearing up the Madrid defence to tally up more.
His second came just three minutes into the second half, steering a header past Andriy Lunin between the sticks. Just four minutes later, Sorloth looked hungry again, earning a hat-trick and rewriting the story of the game.
Within the hour, the Norway international delivered his fourth goal, bringing the hosts level with the La Liga champions. His efforts looked to bring the game alive, while simultaneously silencing any doubters.
His four goals were enough to keep the sides level, forcing Madrid to return home with just one point. The leaders are set to face Real Betis in the final game of the season on Saturday.
Real Madrid player ratings (4-3-3)
GK: Andriy Lunin (4); RB: Lucas Vazquez (8); CB: Eder Militao (6); CB: Antonio Rudiger (6); LB: Fran Garcia (5); CM: Luka Modric (7); CM: Federico Valverde (6); CM: Dani Ceballos (3); RW: Arda Guler (9); ST: Joselu (8); LW: Brahim Diaz (8).
Substitutes: Nacho Fernandez (6); Eduardo Camavinga (6); Rodrygo (7); Mario Martin (6)
Player of the match - Alexander Sorloth (Villarreal)
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This article was originally published on 90min.com as Villarreal 4-4 Real Madrid: Player ratings as Sorloth strikes four goals in chaotic draw.
