Real Madrid secured a vital 1-0 win over Athletic Club at the Santiago Bernabeu, with Federico Valverde’s spectacular stoppage-time volley the difference in the capital.
In a match dominated by the hosts, it took until the 93rd minute for the breakthrough to arrive. Brahim Díaz’s run down the right sparked chaos in the Bilbao box before the ball broke loose.
It sat up perfectly for Valverde, who unleashed a stunning volley into the top corner, giving Unai Simon no chance and igniting wild celebrations.
The Uruguayan’s sixth league goal of the season couldn’t have come at a more crucial moment, as Real moved back within four points of leaders Barcelona.
Despite enjoying over 70% possession, Madrid struggled to break down a well-organised Athletic defence for much of the match. The first half was a cagey affair, with chances at a premium.
🏁 @RealMadridEn 1-0 @Athletic_en
⚽ 90′ + 3′ @FedeeValverde
👉 @Emirates pic.twitter.com/F0ocKsIltl— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) April 20, 2025
Vinicius Junior’s long-range effort was one of few moments of attacking intent in a half that ended goalless.
Athletic, meanwhile, failed to register a single shot on target in the entire game.
The second half saw Madrid significantly increase the tempo, creating several chances. Jude Bellingham saw an effort saved at point-blank range, while Simon also denied his header from a Vinicius trivela cross.
Endrick, on as a substitute, thought he’d helped assist the opener when Vinicius netted in the 79th minute, only for VAR to disallow the goal for a marginal offside.
Moments later, a potential foul on Bellingham by Nunez in the box was waved away, much to the frustration of the home fans.
Athletic made multiple second-half changes in a bid to hold out, but they offered little threat going forward, with Thibaut Courtois largely untested.
Real, on the other hand, kept probing and eventually got their reward through Valverde’s moment of brilliance.
