Real Madrid’s Late Show Seals Top Spot in LaLiga with 2-1 Win Over Valencia

Real Madrid delivered another thrilling comeback performance on Friday, beating Valencia 2-1 at the Mestalla in a match filled with drama, controversy, and stunning late goals. With Jude Bellingham's winner coming seven minutes into stoppage time, Los Blancos moved to the top of the LaLiga standings, sitting two points clear of Atlético Madrid.

Despite being reduced to 10 men following Vinícius Júnior's red card, Madrid showcased their trademark resilience, earning three crucial points against a struggling Valencia side.

Tense Start Amid Protests

The rescheduled match, postponed due to severe flooding in the Valencia region in October, began in a charged atmosphere. Fans clashed with police outside the Mestalla, protesting against the club's management. Inside the stadium, however, fans were treated to a pulsating game from the first whistle.

Both teams started brightly, with Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde and Valencia’s Hugo Duro testing the opposition defenses early on.

Valencia Takes the Lead

Valencia broke the deadlock in the 27th minute when Hugo Duro capitalized on a rebound after Javi Guerra’s close-range effort was saved by Thibaut Courtois. Duro tapped into an open goal, sending the Mestalla crowd into raptures.

Missed Penalty and Disallowed Goal

Madrid came out aggressively in the second half, searching for an equalizer. Jude Bellingham missed a golden opportunity to level the score in the 55th minute when his penalty struck the post. The penalty was awarded after Enzo Barrenechea fouled Kylian Mbappé in the box.

Just minutes later, Mbappé thought he had equalized, but his effort was disallowed by VAR for offside, further frustrating Carlo Ancelotti's side.

Vinícius Júnior Sent Off

The drama continued in the 79th minute when Vinícius Júnior received a straight red card for slapping Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski during a heated exchange. The Brazilian later apologized on social media, stating:

"Sorry and thank you team."

Late Magic: Modric and Bellingham Shine

Despite being a man down, Madrid refused to give up. Substitute Luka Modric leveled the game in the 85th minute, calmly slotting home after a perfectly timed through ball from Bellingham.

The England international then turned hero in the dying moments of the match, scoring the winner with a composed right-footed finish in the 97th minute. His late brilliance handed Valencia their first loss under new coach Carlos Corberan and solidified Madrid’s position at the top of LaLiga.

Post-Match Reactions

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti praised Bellingham’s resilience, saying:

“The missed penalty gave him extra motivation. The goal was a deserved reward for the game he played.”

Valencia striker Hugo Duro expressed his disappointment, telling Movistar:

“It hurts a lot to lose like this. We had chances but couldn’t capitalize. The fans have been incredible, and we need to focus on improving.”

Valencia’s Struggles Continue

The loss leaves Valencia second-bottom in the LaLiga standings with just 12 points, four points adrift of safety. The team’s inability to close out games continues to haunt them as they battle relegation.

Key Match Highlights

• Goals: Hugo Duro (27’), Luka Modric (85’), Jude Bellingham (97’)
• Red Card: Vinícius Júnior (79’)
• Missed Penalty: Jude Bellingham (55’)
• VAR Drama: Mbappé’s goal disallowed for offside
  
  

  Conclusion: Madrid’s Never-Say-Die Spirit

  Real Madrid’s performance at the Mestalla was a masterclass in resilience and determination. Despite setbacks, the team fought until the very end to secure a vital victory. With this win, Madrid not only claimed the top spot in LaLiga but also sent a message to their rivals about their title ambitions.