Real Madrid delivered a commanding performance at Mestalla, securing a 2-0 victory over Valencia in the 23rd round of La Liga. The opener was scored by defender Álvaro Carreras in the 64th minute, who later shone as the standout player of the match. Kylian Mbappé sealed the deal with another goal just a minute before the end of the game.
Valencia came close to equalizing earlier with a chance from Lucas Beltrán, but his shot hit the post, denying the hosts a much-needed goal.
Carreras’ impressive display included not just his goal but also five tackles and two clearances from his area, marking him as the player of the match. Eduardo Camavinga also exhibited a strong performance, completing 53 passes and intercepting three balls.
Valencia’s manager, Carlos Corberán, deployed a 4-4-2 formation with Stole Dimitrievski in goal; Unai Núñez, Eray Cömert, José Copete, and José Luis Gayà in defense; Luis Rioja, Pepelu, Filip Ugrinic, and Arnaut Danjuma in midfield; and a forward pairing of Hugo Duro and Lucas Beltrán.
On the other hand, Real Madrid, under coach Álvaro Árbeloa, also used a 4-4-2 setup with Thibaut Courtois in goal; a defensive line comprising David Jiménez, Raúl Asencio, Dean Huijsen, and Álvaro Carreras; a midfield featuring Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, and Arda Güler; and a striking duo of Kylian Mbappé and Gonzalo García.
Javier Alberola Rojas officiated the match at Mestalla. Following this game, Valencia will travel to face Levante, while Real Madrid will host Real Sociedad at home.
Currently, Valencia sits in 17th place in the league with 23 points, whereas Real Madrid remains in a strong second position with 57 points.
Substitutions for Valencia
72’ – Unai Núñez out for Thierry Correia, Pepelu out for Guido Rodríguez
81’ – Luis Rioja out for Largie Ramazani, Filip Ugrinic out for Javi Guerra, Lucas Beltrán out for Umar Sadiq, Arda Güler out for Franco Mastantuono
Yellow card for Valencia:
42’ – José Copete (Unsporting behavior)
Substitutions for Real Madrid
76’ – Gonzalo García out for Brahim Díaz, David Jiménez out for Trent Alexander-Arnold
91’ – Federico Valverde out for Jorge Cestero
Yellow card for Real Madrid:
23’ – Álvaro Carreras (Holding an opponent to prevent advancement)