Real Madrid extended their formidable winning streak with a decisive 2-0 victory over Valencia, powered by second-half goals from Álvaro Carreras and Kylian Mbappé at the Estadio de Mestalla.
Coming into the match, Real Madrid boasted a formidable five-game winning streak, sitting second in La Liga. Valencia, meanwhile, occupied a lower mid-table position, looking to upset their high-flying visitors at their daunting home ground. The historical rivalry often guarantees a fierce contest.
The first half saw Real Madrid dominate possession, controlling 60% of the ball. They launched multiple attacks, registering several shots on target.
However, Valencia's defense held firm, denying any clear breakthroughs. The home side's goalkeeper proved crucial, making four vital saves to keep the score level.
Valencia, despite less possession, defended resolutely and looked to counter. Their limited offensive efforts included five shots off target, but none troubled Real Madrid's goal.
The half ended goalless, a testament to Valencia's disciplined defensive organization and their goalkeeper's strong performance.
Real Madrid returned for the second half knowing they needed to convert their dominance into goals. Valencia aimed to maintain their defensive shape and perhaps snatch a goal on the counter-attack.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 65th minute for Real Madrid. Álvaro Carreras drilled home the opening goal after a precise assist from Dean Huijsen. The young defender's effort broke Valencia's stubborn resistance.
Just four minutes later, Carreras received a yellow card for a mistimed challenge. Valencia responded with substitutions, bringing on Pepelu and Unai Núñez in the 72nd and 73rd minutes respectively to inject fresh energy.
Real Madrid also made changes, introducing Brahim Díaz and Dani Jiménez in the 76th minute. As the game wore on, Valencia's J. Copete picked up a yellow card in the 88th minute.
Kylian Mbappé then sealed the victory for Real Madrid in the 90+1st minute. He slotted home a goal, assisted by Brahim Díaz, securing all three points for the visitors.
Real Madrid's superiority was evident in the statistics, boasting an expected goals (xG) of 1.0 compared to Valencia's 0.44. They outshot their hosts 10 to 7 overall, with six shots on target to Valencia's zero.
This comfortable 2-0 win extends Real Madrid's impressive La Liga winning streak to six games, maintaining their strong position in the title race. Valencia, conversely, remain in the lower half of the table after another challenging result.
