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 at this stadium in 17 years, tightens the title race.
Despite having one eye on their upcoming Champions League clash with Arsenal, Real Madrid, hampered by injuries limiting squad rotation, started the game just three points ahead of Barcelona. The depth issues were highlighted by the debut of 19-year-old goalkeeper Fran Gonzalez, stepping in due to injuries to both senior keepers.
Barcelona now has a golden opportunity to extend their lead to six points when they face Real Betis later on Saturday. While acknowledging the difficulty of the fixture, securing a six-point advantage could be crucial in their La Liga title pursuit, alongside their Champions League ambitions.
The match saw Valencia take the lead through Mouctar Diakhaby shortly after Real Madrid`s Vinicius Junior had a penalty saved by Valencia`s goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili. A Valencia own goal, initially attributed to Diakhaby, was later disallowed for offside. Despite Real Madrid`s reputation for comebacks, they found themselves trailing.
Vinicius Junior did equalize early in the second half, but despite consistent pressure and numerous saves from Mamardashvili, Real Madrid couldn`t find a winning goal. Valencia, against the run of play, struck late in added time to secure a victory that significantly boosts their survival hopes, moving them further away from the relegation zone.
This unexpected result intensifies the pressure in the La Liga title race. Barcelona now has a prime chance to capitalize and establish a commanding lead.
