Federico Valverde became Real Madrid’s hero with a jaw-dropping 93rd-minute volley to snatch a dramatic 1-0 victory over Athletic Club at the Santiago Bernabéu. The Uruguayan’s thunderous strike kept Los Blancos’ LaLiga title hopes alive, cutting the gap to league leaders Barcelona to four points ahead of their upcoming Copa del Rey final clash.
A Game of Patience and Frustration
Real Madrid entered the match desperate to bounce back from their Champions League exit against Arsenal earlier in April. Manager Carlo Ancelotti reverted to a diamond-shaped midfield, deploying Jude Bellingham at the tip and using Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga as makeshift full-backs. Despite dominating possession (75% in the first half), Madrid struggled to break down Athletic’s disciplined defense. Vinícius Júnior buzzed around the left flank but lacked support in the box, while Athletic’s backup lineup—resting key players like Nico Williams after their Europa League semi-final qualification—held firm.
Athletic Club, making ten changes from their midweek match, focused on containment. Goalkeeper Unai Simón faced little action early on, but the hosts turned up the heat after halftime. Camavinga forced a sharp save from Simón on a counter-attack, and Bellingham nearly headed Madrid ahead twice around the hour mark.
VAR Drama and Valverde’s Redemption
The game seemed destined for a goalless draw until late drama unfolded. In the 79th minute, Vinícius Jr. cut inside and curled a neat finish past Simón, sparking wild celebrations—only for VAR to rule it out due to substitute Endrick’s offside position in the buildup.
Just as frustration mounted, Valverde stepped up. In stoppage time, a half-cleared cross fell to him 20 yards out, and he unleashed a first-time rocket into the top corner, leaving Simón rooted. The strike was a carbon copy of his iconic goals against Barcelona and Manchester City in recent seasons, cementing his reputation as Madrid’s clutch performer.
Tactical Takeaways
Ancelotti’s decision to use Valverde and Camavinga as full-backs raised eyebrows but ultimately paid off. The duo provided defensive stability while contributing to attacks, with Valverde’s stamina crucial in the dying moments. Jude Bellingham, operating in a more advanced role, linked play effectively but lacked his usual goal threat until late chances emerged.
For Athletic, manager Ernesto Valverde’s rotated side executed their defensive plan admirably but faded as Madrid’s substitutions added fresh legs. Iñaki Williams’ introduction injected pace, yet the visitors failed to test Thibaut Courtois seriously.
The Bigger Picture
This win keeps Madrid’s title dreams afloat, but Barcelona’s seven-point lead (now reduced to four) remains daunting. With five games left, every match is a final for Los Blancos, especially with El Clásico looming in the Copa del Rey final on April 27.
Valverde’s heroics also highlight Madrid’s never-say-die attitude, a trait that has defined their season. However, reliance on late goals—seven of their last ten wins have come via strikes after the 80th minute—raises questions about their ability to dominate games early.
What’s Next?
Real Madrid must now regroup for the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, a chance to salvage silverware from a turbulent season. Athletic Club, still in the Europa League hunt, will shift focus to their semi-final against an in-form opponent.
As LaLiga’s title race enters its final stretch, Valverde’s wonder strike ensures the drama is far from over. For Madrid fans, it’s a reason to believe. For everyone else, it’s proof that in football, magic can happen when you least expect it.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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