Real Madrid vs Athletic Club Highlights, Valverde’s Stunning 93rd-Minute Goal Secures 1-0 Win | Real Madrid La Liga 2024-25 Match Report
Real Madrid vs Athletic Club — That’s how it ended at the Santiago Bernabeu in a tight La Liga clash, but it was far from an easy ride for Los Blancos. The match looked destined for a goalless draw until Federico Valverde stepped up in the 93rd minute with an absolutely stunning goal to snatch victory and keep Madrid’s title hopes alive.
First Half, Frustration and Missed Opportunities
From the start, Real Madrid controlled the game in terms of possession but failed to turn that control into clear chances. Despite good link-up play between Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham, the final ball was often lacking. Athletic Club defended deep, staying compact and making life difficult for the Madrid attackers.
Real Madrid’s first shot on target came only after 36 minutes when Valverde’s header from a Modric corner went straight at the goalkeeper. It was clear that Madrid were struggling in the final third and lacked creativity in the first half. At halftime, it was still 0-0, and frustration was building.
Second Half, Momentum Shifts But Goals Stay Away
After the break, Madrid looked more dangerous. Eduardo Camavinga had an early effort saved after a great solo run. Soon after, Bellingham’s header forced an excellent save from Unai Simon. The tempo had increased, and Madrid were creating chances, but they just couldn’t find the net.
Then came the moment when fans thought Madrid had finally scored. Vinicius Jr. netted a slick finish in the 79th minute, only for it to be ruled out by VAR due to Endrick being offside in the buildup. Moments later, Bellingham missed another golden chance inside the box, shooting over the bar.
Valverde’s 93rd-Minute Magic
With time running out and tension rising inside the Bernabeu, Valverde produced a moment of magic. From the edge of the box, he blasted a right-footed volley into the top corner, leaving Unai Simon with no chance. It was a goal worthy of winning any game, and it came just when Madrid needed it the most.
Fans erupted, the stadium roared, and Real Madrid celebrated a crucial 1-0 win that keeps them just four points behind league leaders Barcelona. With El Clasico still to come, this win was vital in keeping the title race alive.
Real Madrid vs Athletic Club, Player of the Match, Fede Valverde
There was only one name on everyone’s lips after the final whistle — Federico Valverde. Not just because of the goal, but for his overall performance. He worked tirelessly throughout the game, covered both ends of the pitch, and when Madrid needed a hero, he delivered.
Thibaut Courtois praised Valverde after the match, saying, “Fede has a very unique shot that’s amazing. We always tell him to shoot, and today he did it at the perfect moment.”
Ancelotti Reacts, Praise and Concerns
Manager Carlo Ancelotti also praised his team’s second-half performance, highlighting Valverde as the key player. He confirmed that Modric and Ceballos were used to control the midfield and didn’t reveal much about his plans for the upcoming Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.
He also showed some frustration with VAR, especially for not checking a potential penalty on Bellingham. Still, he seemed satisfied with the result, calling it a “good game” overall.
Looking Ahead, Title Race Heats Up
With this win, Real Madrid remain in the La Liga title race, only four points behind Barcelona. The pressure is now on the Catalan giants, especially with the next El Clasico approaching.
Athletic Club, despite the loss, played with good discipline and showed why they are in the top four. But Real Madrid’s firepower and never-give-up attitude made the difference in the end.
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