Mourinho warns Real Madrid against complacency after dramatic 3-2 win at Elche

Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho criticised his team's lack of focus after they squandered a two-goal lead before narrowly securing a 3-2 victory against Elche in the Spanish league.

The defending champions seemed to be in complete control before letting the home side back into the match.

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Real Madrid had several chances to put the game completely out of reach, but their inability to finish cost them their comfortable cushion.

Reflecting on his team's performance, Mourinho pointed out that his squad suffered from a lack of sharp focus during key moments of the match.

"These are games in which we have three, four or five opportunities to kill it, and we fail to do it," Mourinho stated. "And then it seems we move from the 'easiness' to not being able to control. It's like we enter this way of thinking that we didn't win 3-0, 4-0, but it's okay. I think this is... easiness. And you let things go on their own."

Despite the unnecessary drama and defensive lapse, Madrid managed to salvage all three points late in the game.

Jude Bellingham started a brilliant play near midfield with a clear long touch to beat an opponent.

He then passed the ball forward to Kylian Mbappe, who broke into the penalty area and quickly set up Carlos Espi for a dramatic stoppage-time winner from close range.

Mourinho was pleased with the fighting spirit his players showed when their backs were against the wall, even if the stressful ending could have been avoided entirely.

"The good thing is that, when in difficulty and seeing the possibility of losing points, the team reacts and wins," Mourinho said.

"And in the end that is the most important thing. Another thing is that nobody gets bored watching Real Madrid games. Because they are fun to watch."

The hard-fought 3-2 win moves Real Madrid even on points with rival Barcelona at the top of the table.

Barcelona will have the opportunity to reclaim sole possession of first place when they face promoted side Racing Santander on Wednesday.

For Mourinho and Madrid, the thrilling victory keeps their title push on track, but serves as a clear reminder that they cannot afford to relax when leading games.

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