Real Madrid edge Celta Vigo with late Valverde winner to close gap on Barcelona

Real Madrid secured a dramatic 2–1 victory over Celta Vigo in La Liga after Federico Valverde’s deflected strike deep into stoppage time sealed a hard-fought win, ending a run of two consecutive defeats and keeping Carlo Ancelotti’s side firmly in the title race.

Los Blancos took the lead early in the contest when Aurélien Tchouaméni struck in the 11th minute on Friday. However, the advantage was short-lived as Celta Vigo responded in the 25th minute through Borja Iglesias.

The equaliser came after Williot Swedberg surged down the left flank and delivered a low cross into the box. Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was involved defensively, was heavily criticised for his role in the goal after allowing the Celta attacker to regain possession before cutting inside and providing a precise lay-off for Iglesias to convert.

Real Madrid, who were missing nine players due to injury and suspension, dominated much of the second half but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities in the final third.

Vinícius Júnior registered Madrid’s first shot on target since the opening half when he fired a low effort at the goalkeeper from just outside the penalty area in the 57th minute.

Celta Vigo came close to snatching a late winner in the 88th minute when substitute Iago Aspas struck the post during a swift counter-attack.

However, the decisive moment arrived four minutes into added time when Valverde attempted a long-range effort that deflected off a defender, wrong-footing the goalkeeper before finding the back of the net.

The closing moments were filled with tension as Real Madrid’s celebrations briefly turned to anxiety while both teams waited to see whether the referee would be advised to review a possible foul in the build-up to the goal.

No intervention followed, and when the referee blew the final whistle moments after play resumed, the contrasting emotions were evident — relief among the Real Madrid players and frustration for the home side.

Celta Vigo striker Borja Iglesias admitted the manner of the defeat was difficult to accept.

“It hurts because it happened right at the death,” Iglesias said. “It’s a bit frustrating.”

The victory leaves Barcelona at the top of the La Liga table with 64 points, just one point ahead of Real Madrid. The Catalan side are scheduled to face Athletic Bilbao on Saturday.

Despite the defeat, Celta Vigo remain in sixth place on 40 points.