A dull first half at the Bernabéu

At the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid faced an Athletic Club side with several rotations following their qualification for the Europa League semifinals. In the first 45 minutes, the hosts controlled possession but struggled to create danger. Vinícius Júnior was the most active in attack, but his efforts were well contained by the visiting defense. Federico Valverde had a clear header that was denied by goalkeeper Unai Simón.

Second-half push and a dramatic finish

In the second half, Real Madrid stepped up their intensity. Rodrygo and Eduardo Camavinga threatened constantly, and Jude Bellingham nearly scored, but once again, Simón was there to make the save. In the 80th minute, Vinícius Júnior found the back of the net, but VAR ruled the goal out due to Endrick being offside in the build-up.

When the draw seemed inevitable, Federico Valverde delivered a moment of magic. In the 93rd minute, the Uruguayan midfielder received the ball just outside the box and fired a rocket into the net, igniting celebrations at the Bernabéu. The goal secured three vital points and keeps Real Madrid firmly in the title hunt, trailing Barcelona by just four points with six matches remaining.

The victory boosts the confidence of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad as they aim to finish strong in the final stretch of the LaLiga season.