Real Madrid`s La Liga campaign took a hit as Valencia secured a dramatic 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu with a 95th-minute goal from Hugo Duro. This win marked Valencia`s first at this stadium in 17 years. Real Madrid, possibly with one eye on their upcoming Champions League match against Arsenal and hampered by injuries limiting rotation options, started the game just three points ahead of Barcelona in La Liga. Youngster Fran Gonzalez, a 19-year-old goalkeeper, made his debut due to injuries to the first and second-choice keepers, highlighting Real Madrid`s current squad depth issues.
Barcelona had the chance to capitalize on Real Madrid`s slip-up but only managed a draw against Real Betis. Despite moving four points clear at the top under Hansi Flick, it felt like a missed opportunity to extend their lead. Gavi`s early goal for Barcelona seemed to set them on course for victory, but Betis quickly equalized through Natan just ten minutes later. With a Champions League clash against Borussia Dortmund approaching, Barcelona gained a point, but they cannot afford further mistakes as the El Clasico match in May could be decisive in the title race.
Real Madrid Stumbles
Shortly after Valencia`s goalkeeper, Giorgi Mamardashvili, who is set to join Liverpool, saved Vinicius Junior`s penalty, Valencia took the lead through Mouctar Diakhaby. Real Madrid then had a Diakhaby own goal disallowed for offside later in the first half. Despite Real Madrid`s history of comebacks, there was an expectation that they would eventually overturn the deficit and win, the only question being when the goals would come.
Vini Jr. equalized early in the second half, scoring shortly after the restart. However, despite intense pressure, Real Madrid couldn`t find a way past Mamardashvili again. The Georgian goalkeeper made eight saves, facing an expected goals on target of 3.28. Real Madrid`s efforts were ultimately fruitless, and Valencia struck late in added time to secure a victory that could be crucial for their season. Now seven points clear of the relegation zone, Carlos Corberan is on track to achieve a great escape and ensure the historic club remains in the top division.
Penalty Concerns Continue
After Kylian Mbappe scored a penalty in Real Madrid`s comeback win against Leganes, it appeared their penalty issues might be resolved. However, Vini Jr.`s missed penalty against Valencia raised concerns again. Given Real Madrid`s defensive vulnerabilities, they cannot afford to concede goals, and with Mbappe`s proven penalty record, Carlo Ancelotti might consider making him the designated penalty taker going forward. These penalty issues must be addressed, especially with crucial Champions League matches approaching.
Building Towards El Clasico
Barcelona and Real Madrid are already set to compete for the Copa del Rey title on April 26th, but May 11th is marked as a key date for everyone. Currently, the pressure is on Barcelona leading up to that match. If the current gap remains, a Real Madrid victory would bring them within a single point. This is why Barcelona`s draw against Betis feels like a missed opportunity to gain a significant advantage.
Dominic Ashworth