Real Madrid`s La Liga campaign suffered a setback with a 2-1 defeat to Valencia at the Santiago Bernabeu. Hugo Duro scored the decisive goal in the 95th minute, marking Valencia`s first victory there in 17 years. Despite Real Madrid`s focus potentially shifting towards their upcoming Champions League match against Arsenal, injuries limited their squad rotation. They entered the game just three points ahead of Barcelona in La Liga. Notably, 19-year-old Fran Gonzalez made his debut as goalkeeper due to injuries to the team`s senior keepers, highlighting concerns about Real Madrid`s squad depth at this crucial point in the season.
Barcelona had the opportunity to take advantage of Real Madrid`s dropped points but only managed a draw against Real Betis. Although this result puts them four points ahead, it feels like a missed chance to extend their lead significantly. Gavi`s early goal for Barcelona seemed promising, but Betis quickly equalized ten minutes later through Natan. With a Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund approaching, Barcelona secured a point, but they cannot afford further slip-ups as the upcoming El Clasico in May could be decisive in the title race.
Real Madrid Underperforms
Shortly after Valencia`s goalkeeper, Giorgi Mamardashvili, who is set to join Liverpool, saved Vinicius Junior`s penalty, Valencia took the lead with a goal from Mouctar Diakhaby. A Diakhaby own goal for Real Madrid was later disallowed for offside in the first half. Despite Real Madrid`s history of comebacks, they were expected to overcome the deficit and win. The question was simply when they would score the necessary goals.
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 unsuccessful as Valencia scored a late winner in stoppage time. This victory significantly improves Valencia`s season, moving them seven points clear of the relegation zone. Coach Carlos Corberan is on track to achieve a successful escape from relegation and ensure the historic club remains in the top division.
Penalty Issues Continue for Madrid
After Kylian Mbappe converted a penalty in Real Madrid`s comeback win against Leganes, it seemed their penalty problems were resolved. However, Vini Jr.`s missed penalty against Valencia has raised concerns again. With Real Madrid`s defensive vulnerabilities, they cannot afford to concede easy goals. Mbappe has proven to be their most reliable penalty taker, suggesting Carlo Ancelotti should consider making him the permanent penalty taker moving forward. These penalty issues must be resolved, especially with crucial Champions League matches ahead as the season progresses.
Building Up to El Clasico
Barcelona and Real Madrid are already scheduled to compete for the Copa del Rey title on April 26, but the El Clasico on May 11 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 solidify their lead.
