Real Madrid did just enough at Mestalla on Sunday night, beating Valencia 2-0 to remain firmly in touch with LaLiga leaders Barcelona. It was not a performance filled with flair or fireworks, but it was effective, and at this stage of the season that was all that mattered for a side still missing several key players.
The win keeps Real Madrid just one point behind FC Barcelona at the top of the table, with Barcelona on 58 points and Madrid close behind on 57. Valencia, meanwhile, remain in trouble, sitting 17th and only a point clear of the relegation zone after another frustrating night in front of their home supporters.
From the opening whistle, Real controlled possession but struggled to turn that dominance into real danger. Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski was rarely tested in the first half, as Madrid’s passing lacked penetration and the hosts defended compactly. The game reflected the challenges facing coach Alvaro Arbeloa, who was forced to improvise with a depleted squad.
With Vinicius Junior suspended and Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo and Eder Militao all sidelined through injury, Arbeloa turned to youth. Academy players Raul Asensio, David Jimenez and Gonzalo Garcia were handed starts, while Kylian Mbappe carried much of the attacking responsibility. Mbappe showed flashes of intent with runs down the left, but clear chances were limited for much of the contest.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 65th minute in slightly fortunate fashion. Full back Alvaro Carreras surged forward and initially appeared to lose the ball inside the area, only for a defensive clearance to ricochet off him and fall kindly back into his path. The 22 year old reacted quickly, guiding a low shot into the bottom corner to give Madrid the lead and shift the momentum.
Valencia struggled to respond and rarely threatened to equalise, allowing Madrid to manage the closing stages with growing confidence. In stoppage time, the visitors sealed the points on the counter attack. Substitute Brahim Diaz drove forward and slid a low cross into the box, where Mbappe arrived to finish first time from close range. It was his 23rd league goal of the season, extending his lead at the top of the LaLiga scoring charts to eight goals.
After the match, Arbeloa summed up the challenge of the night, describing trips to Mestalla as never comfortable. He praised his side’s commitment and defensive focus, noting that Thibaut Courtois was not required to make a single save. While admitting Madrid can improve in terms of creativity, he highlighted dedication and sacrifice as the foundations of the win.
Elsewhere, the title race gained further clarity as Atletico Madrid slipped further behind after a home defeat to Real Betis. For Real Madrid, though, the message was simple. Stay solid, keep winning, and keep the pressure on Barcelona.
