Real Madrid kept their La Liga title hopes alive with a dramatic late victory over Athletic Club at the Santiago Bernabéu, thanks to a stunning 93rd-minute volley from Federico Valverde.
Valverde’s golazo keeps Madrid in La Liga race
With time running out and the match deadlocked, Valverde stepped up with a moment of brilliance—lashing a thunderous effort into the top corner after a loose ball fell to him at the edge of the box.
The strike marked his sixth league goal of the campaign and couldn’t have come at a more critical time.
The win ensured that Madrid stayed within four points of league leaders Barcelona, with six matches left to play, including a decisive El Clásico. Without Valverde’s late intervention, Los Blancos would have been staring at a six-point gap, a potentially fatal blow to their title ambitions.
Valverde’s volley was another example of his outrageous ball-striking ability. The Uruguayan midfielder has made a habit of scoring screamers, having scored five goals from outside the box. His tally of six goals from just 2.22 expected goals (xG) underlines just how clinical and spectacular he’s been. (FotMob)
Valverde’s brilliance highlights his key role
Since arriving from Peñarol in 2016 and working his way up through Castilla and a loan at Deportivo, Valverde has blossomed into a key figure in Madrid’s midfield. From his first-team debut in 2018 to his heroics in Champions League finals and Clasicos, he’s consistently delivered in big moments.
This season, he continues to prove why he’s considered one of the most complete midfielders in Europe. After taking over the iconic number 8 shirt from Toni Kroos, Valverde has embraced the responsibility and become one of Carlo Ancelotti’s most trusted men.
As Madrid chase domestic glory after a disappointing Champions League exit, they’ll rely on Valverde’s engine, mentality, and moments of magic to push them over the line in what remains of the season.
