Real Madrid kept their La Liga title hopes alive after Federico Valverde scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to secure a 2-1 victory over Celta Vigo on Saturday.
Madrid were desperate for a response after back-to-back defeats against CA Osasuna and Getafe CF, results that had left them trailing league leaders FC Barcelona by four points.
🔹 Tchouaméni Opens the Scoring
The visitors made a bright start and took the lead in the 11th minute through Aurélien Tchouaméni.
A short corner routine involving Trent Alexander-Arnold and Arda Güler created the opportunity, with Güler cutting the ball back to the edge of the area. Tchouaméni then fired a first-time shot that flew into the far corner off the post.
It was the French midfielder’s first La Liga goal since April 2024.
🔹 Celta Hit Back Quickly
The home side responded strongly and equalised in the 25th minute.
Williot Swedberg surged down the left flank, shrugging off Alexander-Arnold before cutting the ball back into the box. Borja Iglesias arrived perfectly to slot the ball past Thibaut Courtois.
Celta nearly took the lead before halftime, but Courtois produced an excellent save to deny Swedberg.
🔹 Second-Half Pressure
Madrid increased the pressure after the break.
Vinícius Júnior forced a good save from Ionuț Radu, while a potential penalty was ruled out following a VAR review after a handball incident involving Ferran Jutglà.
At the other end, Iago Aspas almost stunned Madrid with a low shot that beat Courtois but struck the post.
🔹 Valverde’s Dramatic Winner
Just when the game seemed destined for a draw, Valverde delivered in stoppage time.
Picking up a loose ball outside the penalty area, the Uruguayan midfielder unleashed a powerful shot that deflected off Marcos Alonso, wrong-footing Radu and flying into the net.
The late goal secured a crucial victory for Madrid, preventing another damaging slip in the title race.
🔹 Big Week Ahead for Madrid
The win provides a major morale boost for Madrid, who were missing key stars such as Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham due to injuries.
Attention now turns to their upcoming UEFA Champions League clash against Manchester City, where they will look to build on this dramatic victory.
