Real Madrid edges Valencia in tight match, narrows gap to Barcelona

Real Madrid Narrowly Stay Ahead of Barcelona with 2-0 Win at Valencia

Real Madrid maintained their second-place position in La Liga with a 2-0 victory over Valencia on Sunday, narrowing the gap to leaders Barcelona by just one point. Kylian Mbappe and Alvaro Carreras scored the goals for Real, who dominated possession but struggled to create clear chances.

Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski was rarely tested as the visitors controlled the game, but it took until the 65th minute for Real to break the deadlock through Carreras’ fortunate goal. The fullback’s attempted clearance ricocheted back off him and fell at his feet, allowing him to score the opening goal.

Mbappe sealed the win in stoppage time with a first-time finish from close range after Brahim Diaz’s cross into the area. The France forward has now scored 23 league goals this season, eight clear of the top scorer.

Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa praised his team’s dedication and commitment, saying they demonstrated “solidity and commitment” in their performance. Valencia, meanwhile, remain 17th in the table with a point above the relegation zone.

Elsewhere on Sunday, Atletico Madrid suffered a 1-0 home loss to Real Betis, while Villarreal moved closer to fourth place with a win over another opponent. The results left Barcelona at the top of the table with 58 points, followed by Real Madrid on 57.

Source: Al Jazeera