Federico Valverde Scores 93rd-Minute Winner as Real Madrid Bounce Back After UCL Exit

Valveder 

Valverde the Hero as Real Madrid Responds to UCL Exit with Late Win

Federico Valverde emerged as the hero for Real Madrid on Sunday, scoring a dramatic 93rd-minute winner to secure a 1-0 victory over Athletic Club. The win was a strong response after Madrid's Champions League quarterfinal exit to Arsenal earlier in the week.

Real Madrid had a slow first half at the Santiago Bernabéu but came alive in the second. Vinícius Júnior, the standout performer of the match, had a goal ruled out for offside before Valverde sealed the win with a stunning late strike.

The result keeps Madrid within four points of LaLiga leaders Barcelona. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti praised Valverde as “the key” to the team’s performance.

“We were a bit slow in the first half, but the second half was much better,” Ancelotti said. “We wanted to react after our Champions League exit. The team responded well, and Fede was the key player.”

Vinícius, who has faced criticism and jeers from some fans recently, impressed with his energy and creativity. Although his goal in the 80th minute was disallowed due to an offside by Endrick, Ancelotti praised his attitude.

“Vinícius is extraordinary,” Ancelotti said. “His attitude was fantastic. He played well, created chances, and I was very happy with his reaction on the pitch. He’ll be crucial in the games to come.”

Madrid’s next LaLiga match is away to Getafe on Wednesday, followed by a huge Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on Saturday.

With Kylian Mbappé unavailable due to suspension and a minor ankle injury, Ancelotti deployed Jude Bellingham as a false nine — a tactic that worked well last season.

“Bellingham did well in the second half,” Ancelotti said. “We created chances from wide areas, delivered good crosses, and he made smart runs in the box. He deserved a goal.”