Real Madrid claims La Liga win with Tchouameni's birthday header

Real Madrid clinched a dramatic 2-1 victory against Las Palmas, securing their position at the summit of La Liga, thanks to Aurelien Tchouameni's decisive header on his birthday. 

Las Palmas initially seized the lead in the second half through Javier Munoz, but Madrid's comeback, with Vinicius Junior equalising before Tchouameni's late winner, showcased their resilience and determination.

Carlo Ancelotti's strategic move of bringing on Tchouameni just three minutes before the winning goal proved pivotal, stressing the impact of a motivated bench. Ancelotti commented, "I look at the bench, and I have chances to change the dynamic. It's a tool that we have, with such a motivated bench; they bring a lot when they come on."

The absence of leading goalscorer Jude Bellingham, suspended for the match, led to Brahim Diaz stepping into the lineup. Additionally, Ancelotti handed Dani Ceballos a rare start in midfield. Despite a first half with limited opportunities, Las Palmas, led by former Barcelona reserves coach Francisco Garcia Pimienta, displayed commendable defensive prowess, challenging the La Liga giants.

The encounter, billed as a clash between the division's best two defenses, witnessed a breakthrough early in the second half. Munoz capitalised on a well-executed counter-attack initiated by Kirian Rodriguez, who set up Sandro Ramirez down the right. The former Barcelona forward's cross found Munoz, whose low effort deflected off Nacho Fernandez and into the net.

Real Madrid responded with determination as Vinicius Junior, after missing a couple of earlier chances, leveled the score in the 65th minute. Eduardo Camavinga's precise pass over the defense allowed Vinicius to drill the ball past Las Palmas goalkeeper Alvaro Valles from a tight angle.

In pursuit of a winning goal, Ancelotti introduced Turkish attacker Arda Guler for his La Liga debut, alongside match-winner Tchouameni. The French midfielder secured the victory with a remarkable header from Toni Kroos' corner with six minutes remaining.

The win propelled Madrid to the top of the La Liga table, leading Girona by two points, with Barcelona aiming to respond later against Villarreal. 

Las Palmas midfielder Munoz acknowledged Madrid's tenacity, saying, "We have to be proud, we competed, congratulations to Real Madrid. They went behind, and we knew they would come forward, we sat deeper, as a result, and they reacted."