Tito, Raul Baena Receive Red Cards During Real Madrid vs. Rayo Vallecano

Real Madrid saw their chances of a comeback against Rayo Vallecano boosted on Sunday thanks to the early red cards shown to opposition players Tito and Raul Baena.

Los Blancos' official Twitter account confirmed right-back Tito was shown his marching orders in the 14th minute. Here's footage of the wild challenge that sent Toni Kroos flying:

Referee Ignacio Iglesias had little choice but to send Tito off after such a late and reckless challenge. Both Ed Malyon of the Mirror and fan account BlancoStats agreed the punishment was justified:

Kroos was able to carry on despite his shin appearing to come into contact with Tito's studs in what could have been a much more damaging offence.

Real Madrid trailed their opponents 2-1 at the time of Tito's dismissal, but the tables quickly turned as Gareth Bale equalised in the 25th minute before Baena followed Tito off for his second caution.

Mercado Futbol provided footage of the offence that allegedly warranted a second yellow for Baena:

"

Un peneal INEXISTENTE. ¿Dónde está el penal? aparte expulsaron a Baena. #LigaBBVA. pic.twitter.com/RSzZdcWxe1

— Mercado Fútbol® ⚽ (@Mercado_Futbool) December 20, 2015"

Baena was adjudged to have impeded an attacker from a set piece, resulting in a penalty being awarded to hosts Real, but the beIN Sports commentary team were left scratching their heads:

Cristiano Ronaldo went on to convert the resulting spot-kick, edging Real Madrid in front for the second time in Sunday's encounter with more than a half the game to play against only nine men.

Goal's Ben Hayward identified Real as somewhat pedestrian in their ways despite the advantage:

Compared to Tito's offence, Baena's dismissal was far more contentious but made no less of an impact on Rayo's hopes of taking something from the game at the Santiago Bernabeu.