Real Madrid began 2025 on a high note, securing their position as leaders of LaLiga after defeating Valencia 2-1 at the Estadio de Mestalla. This thrilling encounter saw the Madridistas overcoming early adversity and clinching victory with late-game heroics. The match not only marked yet another comeback win for Carlo Ancelotti’s boys but also reinforced their fine form as they aim for multiple competition titles.
The clash was held amid heavy rain, which had previously postponed the fixture. Valencia’s team, under the new management of Carlos Corberán, was desperate to reverse a troubling trend, having earned only two points from their last fifteen before the break. The stakes were high, as the home crowd wore their frustrations visibly, protesting against the club’s management earlier this season.
The first half kicked off with Real Madrid dominating possession. The visitors were the first to threaten the goal, and Luka Modric, Fede Valverde, and Vinicius Jr. fired off attempts though much of the early pressure from Real Madrid was expertly countered by Valencia’s resolute defense. Despite this, Valencia managed to turn the tide, with Mendy’s effort blocked and Hugo Duro scoring the opening goal on the 27th minute after Javi Guerra's strike was repelled by Courtois, leaving Duro with the easy tap-in.
Valencia's goal sparked some life, and they exhibited impressive defensive solidity afterward, frustrating Real Madrid's attempts to equalize before halftime. Vinicius Jr. was at the center of activity for Madrid, with missed opportunities contributing to the mounting pressure as the teams headed to the locker rooms. The Brazilian was met with chants of "Beach Ball" as he faced grief from the home supporters.
The second half commenced with increased vigor from Real Madrid, who seemed determined to turn their fortunes around. A vibrant Bellingham catalyzed the attack, but misfortune struck when Vinicius was sent off after pushing Valencia keeper Dimitrievski, compliciating matters.
Despite going down to ten men, Madrid pressed on. Modric’s stunning equalizer came on 85 minutes, beautiful teamwork between Camavinga and Brahim led to the Croatian’s slick finish. Just as it appeared the match might end level, the drama continued: as the game slipped deep to injury time, Bellingham capitalized on a defensive mistake, scoring the winning goal and sealing all three points for Real Madrid.
This victory extends Madrid’s winning streak to three games, reinforcing their title challenge. Post-match, Modric reflected on the match, stating, "It was a tough match, but we showed our character to come back and win," emphasizing the difficulty they faced but also the resilience they exhibited. Conversely, Corberán was left disappointed: "We are disappointed with the result but proud of how the team fought until the end," underscoring the challenge his side faced against the reigning champions.
The encounter epitomized the unpredictability of football, where Valencia's flush start contrasted sharply with their eventual disappointment, as their hopes of avoiding relegation were dealt another blow. For Real Madrid, the year could not have started on a higher note, as they looked to build on this momentum heading not only through LaLiga but also through their campaigns across the Copa del Rey, Supercopa de España, and the UEFA Champions League.
This match, more than just three points on the line, serves as yet another thrilling chapter in the storied rivalry between these two LaLiga giants as Madrid looks to extend their title reign.