Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — Real Madrid secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Celta Vigo in a thrilling La Liga clash on Friday night, thanks to a stoppage-time winner from Federico Valverde that rescued Los Blancos from a frustrating draw.
Madrid started the match aggressively and took an early lead in the 11th minute through Aurélien Tchouaméni, who fired a powerful shot from outside the box following a short-corner routine. The goal gave the visitors early control of the match.
However, Celta Vigo quickly responded. In the 25th minute, striker Borja Iglesias equalized after a clever build-up play from the left side involving Williot Swedberg, who delivered a precise pass into the box.
The hosts continued to threaten, forcing several key saves from Thibaut Courtois, while Madrid struggled to find their rhythm in the second half despite chances from Vinícius Júnior.
Just when the match seemed destined to end in a draw, Valverde produced the decisive moment. In the 94th minute, the Uruguayan midfielder unleashed a long-range strike from outside the penalty area that deflected off a defender and wrong-footed the goalkeeper, sealing a dramatic win for Madrid.
The crucial victory ended Real Madrid’s recent losing streak and keeps them firmly in the La Liga title race, sitting just one point behind league leaders FC Barcelona.
Despite an uneven performance throughout the match, Madrid’s late heroics ensured they left Balaídos with three valuable points that could prove decisive in the race for the Spanish league crown.
