Real Madrid`s La Liga campaign suffered a significant blow as Valencia secured a dramatic 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu with a 95th-minute goal from Hugo Duro. This win, Valencia`s first in Madrid in 17 years, puts pressure on Real Madrid, especially considering their upcoming Champions League fixture against Arsenal. Injuries limited Real Madrid`s squad rotation, forcing a debut for 19-year-old goalkeeper Fran Gonzalez due to injuries to the first and second-choice keepers, highlighting concerns about their squad depth at this crucial point in the season.
Barcelona now has a golden opportunity to extend their lead over Real Madrid to six points when they face Real Betis later today. A victory in this match would give Hansi Flick`s team a substantial advantage in the La Liga title race and bolster their chances of securing the title while also competing in the Champions League.
The game saw Valencia take an early lead through Mouctar Diakhaby shortly after Valencia`s goalkeeper, Giorgi Mamardashvili, who is reportedly moving to Liverpool, saved a penalty from Vinicius Junior. A Diakhaby own goal for Real Madrid was disallowed for offside in the first half. Despite Real Madrid`s history of comebacks, they were unable to overcome Valencia this time.
Vinicius Junior equalized for Real Madrid early in the second half, but despite consistent pressure and numerous attempts, they couldn`t get past Mamardashvili, who delivered an outstanding performance with eight saves and prevented 3.28 expected goals on target. Valencia, against the run of play, scored the winning goal in added time, securing a vital result for their season. This victory significantly improves Valencia`s position, moving them seven points clear of relegation and putting coach Carlos Corberan closer to ensuring the club`s survival in the top division.
This unexpected win against Real Madrid away from home intensifies the La Liga title race. If Barcelona fails to capitalize and win their match, Real Madrid will have avoided a major setback. However, a Barcelona victory today would significantly shift the momentum in the title race.
