Federico Valverde’s sensational 93rd-minute goal gave Real Madrid a thrilling victory over Athletic Bilbao. This dramatic finish underscored the team’s resiliency, which helped them stay in the hunt for another title in La Liga. The game was held at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. The result was a continuation of Real Madrid’s strong home record against Athletic Club, where they have not lost any of their last 20 league encounters, with 17 victories and three draws since February 2005.
As far as Carlo Ancelotti’s team was concerned, the match was crucial. They are currently four points behind league leaders Barcelona with just six games remaining of the 2023 season. Despite being without star striker Kylian Mbappe, who was serving a one-match ban for a red card received against Alaves, Real Madrid battled through the match, demonstrating their determination to retain the La Liga title.
Late Goals Define Real Madrid’s Season
Real Madrid’s late-game scoring prowess has been the team’s trademark this season. The home team has allowed 13 goals in the final 15 minutes of the second half. This outstanding run of form sees them only trailing Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in La Liga — not too shabby! This trend was evident in the match against Athletic Bilbao, as Valverde’s last-gasp effort secured three vital points and showcased the team’s fighting spirit.
It was Valverde’s sixth goal of the La Liga season. Beyond returning to the scoresheet, this goal was particularly meaningful, as it had been his first since December 22, 2024. His late goal was symbolic, exemplifying Real Madrid’s forward mentality and grit when the stakes are highest. Their capacity to score at the end of close games, often right after their opponent does, is essential. This ability will prove particularly critical as they enter the season’s final gauntlet.
The win against Athletic Bilbao would give them confidence. Now, they’re just as fired up for their first ever Copa del Rey final against Barcelona! Ancelotti’s side will look to take this momentum into that important clash, scheduled for Saturday.
Ancelotti’s Future Under Discussion
After the match, Carlo Ancelotti spoke to reporters about his rumored departure from Real Madrid. He has one of the longest contracts in the league, running through 2026. He said conversations about his tenure will take place this summer. This statement only injects more confusion as fans and writers wonder if there are changes coming to the club’s front office.
Maybe that’s why Xabi Alonso’s name has been popping up more and more with regards to the next Real Madrid manager. The former Southampton star has targeted the limelight with his terrific spell at Bayer Leverkusen. His close affinity to the club’s storied heritage makes him even more enticing. Should Ancelotti’s future be left in doubt, then Alonso might find himself in the mix as one of the top contenders to assume the control of the reigns.
For now though, Ancelotti is concentrating on the day-to-day issues of the Valleys’ damning transition. Yet with the pressure increasing from both domestic and European competitions, he knows that raising performance levels is vital. Those matches will be key in determining their place on the league table. Yet they will prove hugely influential in determining Ancelotti’s long-term prospects at the club.
Maintaining Title Hopes
Real Madrid’s win over Athletic Bilbao has ensured they will take the La Liga title race down to the last day. And with just six matches remaining in the season, every point matters, as they sit four points behind leaders Barcelona. As all of them work like hell to close the gap, the competition will be intense. All of them are hoping to keep their hopes of winning the cup alive!
Real Madrid’s next match, after their clash with Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final, comes at home against Getafe on Tuesday. Ancelotti’s squad must navigate these critical fixtures with skill and determination if they hope to reclaim their position atop La Liga.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid have begun to look ahead to their next challenge. They’ll be hoping to continue what is developing into some late-game magic as they get used to playing on their home court! As the cast of characters suggests, the squad beautifully marries time-honored experience and wisdom with fresh, youthful exuberance. That potent mix should propel them to victory on both equity and efficiency fronts.
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