Real Madrid kept the pressure on the leaders in La Liga with a dramatic 2–1 victory over Celta Vigo, thanks to a late strike from Federico Valverde.
The match at Balaídos Stadium looked destined to end in a draw until Valverde produced a moment of brilliance late in the game, securing all three points for the visitors and keeping their title challenge firmly alive.
Early dominance from Madrid
From the opening whistle, Real Madrid looked intent on controlling the tempo.
Midfield orchestrator Luka Modrić dictated play with his usual composure, while Jude Bellingham frequently pushed forward to support the attack.
Madrid’s pressure paid off in the first half when a well-worked move ended with Vinícius Júnior finding space inside the box and calmly finishing past the goalkeeper to give the visitors the lead.
Celta respond after the break
Despite trailing, Celta Vigo gradually grew into the contest after halftime. Inspired by the creativity of Iago Aspas, the hosts began to threaten Madrid’s defense more consistently.
Their persistence was rewarded midway through the second half when Aspas helped set up the equalizer, sparking celebrations among the home crowd and shifting momentum toward the Galician side.
Valverde’s decisive moment
With the match heading toward a draw, Real Madrid pushed forward in search of a winner.
In the closing stages, Valverde collected the ball outside the area and unleashed a powerful strike that flew past the goalkeeper and into the net.
The goal stunned the home fans and sent the Madrid bench into celebration, sealing a vital away victory.
Title race implications
The result allows Real Madrid to close the gap at the top of La Liga, maintaining pressure on their closest rivals in the title race.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti praised his side’s resilience after the match, highlighting their determination to fight until the final whistle.
For Celta Vigo, the defeat was a frustrating one after a spirited performance, but there were positives in their ability to compete with one of Spain’s strongest sides.
As the La Liga season approaches its decisive stages, Madrid’s late triumph could prove crucial in the battle for the championship.
