By Martin Graham
Federico Valverde delivered a dramatic stoppage-time winner to keep Real Madrid’s La Liga hopes alive, striking a powerful left-footed volley into the top corner just minutes before the final whistle at the Santiago Bernabéu. The goal arrived deep into added time after relentless second-half pressure from Carlo Ancelotti’s side, who had struggled to break down a determined Athletic Bilbao defense.
The Uruguayan midfielder’s strike marked his sixth in the league this season and his first since scoring against Sevilla in December. With this result, Real remain within touching distance of league leaders Barcelona, trailing by four points with six matches still to be played.
The result came as a much-needed lift following Real’s recent Champions League disappointment, where they were eliminated by Arsenal in a 5-1 defeat on aggregate. Their response in the league was made tougher by the absence of Kylian Mbappé, who missed the match due to suspension after receiving a red card during the narrow victory over Alaves.
Despite controlling most of the second half, Madrid found themselves repeatedly denied by Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simón, who produced key saves to stop Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham. A well-taken finish by Vinícius Júnior appeared to put the hosts in front late on, but a marginal offside against Endrick led to the goal being overturned after a lengthy VAR check.
The decision not to review a challenge on Bellingham in the area added to Madrid’s frustration. But in the closing moments, Valverde—who had gone close earlier—produced a stunning finish to clinch the three points and relieve some of the pressure on Ancelotti ahead of their upcoming Copa del Rey final clash with Barcelona.
As Madrid continue their pursuit of domestic success, questions remain over the future of head coach Carlo Ancelotti. Although his contract runs through 2026, the Italian hinted this week that he would consider his position in the summer. Former Real midfielder Xabi Alonso has been increasingly linked with the role, adding further intrigue to what could be a defining period for the club.
