Fede Valverde’s late goal keeps Real Madrid in La Liga title race

Real Madrid edge past Athletic Bilbao 1-0 as Valverde's stunning stoppage-time strike revives hopes of overtaking Barcelona.

Rodrygo of Real Madrid watches his shot during the La Liga EA Sports match against Athletic Club at Santiago Bernabéu on April 20, 2025, in Madrid, Spain. Photo by Gokhan Taner/Middle East Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Fede Valverde’s late goal against Athletic Bilbao kept Real Madrid’s La Liga title hopes alive on Sunday night, with the Uruguayan’s spectacular strike in the 93rd minute sealing a dramatic 1-0 win at the Santiago Bernabéu. The stoppage-time effort ensures that Los Blancos remain four points behind league leaders Barcelona as the title race enters its final stretch.

Valverde’s goal, a swerving and sliced shot into the top corner, came just as Madrid appeared to be heading toward another frustrating result, days after their Champions League exit at the hands of Arsenal. But the midfielder’s stunning intervention in added time provided a crucial lifeline for a team still reeling from continental disappointment.

A moment of brilliance in a tense clash

"Fede has such a good shot," said goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois after the match. "In training yesterday he shot a ball that looked like it was going out and then picked up a curl like that. You go, ‘how do you shoot like that?’"

Indeed, it was one of those rare moments of individual brilliance that can define seasons. Valverde’s strike didn’t just rescue three points — it reignited belief that Madrid could still catch Barcelona, who pulled off their own comeback win over Celta Vigo the night before.

Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti praised Valverde for stepping up. "Valverde was key in this game because he scored the goal," he said. "We wanted to react after the elimination against Arsenal — the team came through and Fede was the key player."

Athletic Bilbao frustrate Real for 90 minutes

Athletic Bilbao, fresh from reaching the Europa League semi-finals after eliminating Rangers, arrived in Madrid with a heavily rotated squad. Despite this, the Basques were organized and stubborn, denying Madrid clear scoring opportunities for much of the match.

Kylian Mbappé’s absence — due to suspension and a lingering ankle issue — further complicated matters for the hosts. The French forward was whistled by some fans after his passive role during the Arsenal tie, where he was spotted watching on the big screen instead of warming up with teammates.

Vinícius Jr. tried to lift the side with a more energetic display on the left flank, earning applause from the home fans for his work rate. Though he has struggled for form at times this season, his dynamic presence was one of the few bright spots in an otherwise cagey first half.

Madrid increase pressure after the break

After a subdued opening period, Real Madrid came out stronger in the second half. Rodrygo Goes had an early effort go wide, while Eduardo Camavinga forced a solid save from Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simón. The home side began to assert dominance, pressing the visitors deeper into their half.

One of Madrid’s best chances came when Vinícius whipped in a delightful cross with the outside of his boot, met by Jude Bellingham, whose powerful header was expertly tipped over by Simón. The England midfielder later had a close-range shot sail over and was denied a penalty after a soft fall in the box.

Fede Valverde had already come close earlier with a low strike just wide of the near post. Vinícius eventually found the net, but the goal was disallowed after Endrick was ruled offside during the build-up.

Valverde’s goal breaks the deadlock

As the match approached its final moments, it seemed destined to end in frustration for Madrid — until Valverde’s late heroics. Picking up a loose ball outside the box, the Uruguayan unleashed a curling rocket that flew into the top corner, leaving Simón rooted.

It was a goal worthy of winning any match, and it gave Madrid not just three points, but renewed belief. “Valverde has an extraordinary shot,” admitted Athletic manager Ernesto Valverde. “We had a really good game, but they are individually very strong. Vinícius was very good.”

An important psychological victory for Madrid

More than just a victory, this result acts as a psychological boost for a Madrid side still trying to recover from their European disappointment. With Barcelona maintaining their lead at the top, every point counts — and winning in such dramatic fashion could be the push Ancelotti’s men need.

“We were slower in the first half, but very good in the second,” said Ancelotti. “We wanted to win. This was about reacting, showing we are still fighting. And we did that.”

The win also serves as important preparation ahead of next weekend’s Copa del Rey final, where Real Madrid will once again face Barcelona in El Clásico. With the domestic double still within reach, Valverde’s late winner could end up being a turning point in Madrid’s season.

Vinícius regaining form, Bellingham still influential

Although Valverde stole the headlines, Vinícius’s performance did not go unnoticed. The Brazilian winger’s work rate and creativity were vital in breaking down Athletic’s defensive lines, showing signs that he might be hitting form at a crucial moment.

Jude Bellingham, meanwhile, continues to influence games even when he doesn’t score. His ability to find space, draw fouls, and create scoring chances remains invaluable. Though he missed opportunities on Sunday, his presence alone keeps defenders occupied and opens up lanes for others like Valverde.

La Liga title race intensifies

With the season entering its final phase, the La Liga title race looks set to go down to the wire. Barcelona’s slender lead may not be safe, especially with Real Madrid now showing signs of resilience and firepower.

Madrid fans will hope that Sunday’s dramatic victory becomes a launching pad for a late-season surge. The next few fixtures will be critical, including the Copa del Rey final and several tough league encounters that will test both their resolve and squad depth.

If Fede Valverde can continue producing goals like Sunday’s, and if Vinícius and Bellingham maintain their upward trajectory, Madrid may still have a say in how this title race ends.

For now, Valverde’s stoppage-time strike ensures that Real Madrid’s hopes are still very much alive.