Real Madrid Valencia was the key fixture on Sunday as the Spanish champions secured a hard-fought 2-0 win at Mestalla to remain firmly in the La Liga title race. The victory reduced Barcelona’s lead at the top to just one point following the Catalans’ win over Mallorca a day earlier.
Despite missing several first-team regulars, Real Madrid showed resilience and defensive solidity to take all three points from a tense encounter on Spain’s east coast. Goals from Alvaro Carreras and Kylian Mbappe proved decisive against a Valencia side battling near the relegation zone.
Carreras and Mbappe Seal Vital Away Win
Real Madrid, coached by Alvaro Arbeloa, were without suspended forward Vinicius Junior and injured midfielder Jude Bellingham. The absences affected their attacking fluency, but Madrid still controlled long spells of the match.
First-Half Chances Without Breakthrough
The visitors created the clearer opportunities before the break, though chances were limited in a physical contest. Arda Guler saw a deflected effort drift narrowly wide, while Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski denied Mbappe with a strong save using his legs.
Madrid right-back David Jimenez, a graduate of the club’s academy, came close after being set up by Mbappe, but Dimitrievski again kept Valencia level.
Decisive Moments After the Break
The breakthrough arrived midway through the second half when Alvaro Carreras scored from an unlikely position. Cutting inside from the left, the defender used his weaker right foot to place the ball inside the near post, giving Madrid a crucial lead.
Valencia nearly equalised when Lucas Beltran stretched to meet a cross, beating Thibaut Courtois but striking the post. As the home side pushed forward, spaces opened up for Madrid on the counter.
Mbappe Extends Scoring Lead
England international Trent Alexander-Arnold returned from a thigh injury as a second-half substitute, helping Madrid manage the closing stages. In stoppage time, Brahim Diaz assisted Mbappe, who finished calmly to score his 23rd league goal of the season and confirm the win.
Arbeloa praised his team’s focus and defensive discipline, saying the victory came from patience and solidity. He also described Mbappe as currently the best player in the world based on his consistency this season.
Valencia Struggles and Fan Protests
Valencia’s supporters expressed frustration during the match, with some waving white handkerchiefs in protest at the club’s situation. Los Che remain 17th in the table, just one point above the relegation zone. Captain Jose Gaya acknowledged the fans’ concerns, describing their anxiety as understandable.
Atletico Madrid Fall Further Behind
Elsewhere in La Liga, Atletico Madrid suffered a 1-0 home defeat to Real Betis, just days after beating the same opponent heavily in the Copa del Rey. Antony scored the only goal as Betis tightened their defence and limited Atletico’s chances.
The result leaves Atletico 13 points behind leaders Barcelona, while Betis continue their push toward the top four.
Conclusion:
Real Madrid’s win at Valencia ensures the La Liga title race remains tight at the top, with Barcelona now only one point clear. With momentum building and key players returning, Madrid continue to apply pressure as the season enters a decisive phase.
