The Valverde machine does not stop
Federico Valverde continues to be the man of the moment. The Uruguayan midfielder scored his fifth goal in the last three games to help Real Madrid crush Elche 4-1 this Saturday.
His goal came just before the break, with a curling shot from the edge of the area that left the goalkeeper with no options. But this is nothing new: he comes from scoring a hat-trick against Manchester City and another agonizing goal against Celta.
“It doesn’t surprise me because I know what Federico Valverde is capable of,” said Brahim Díaz. “It is an honor to have you as a partner.”
The incredible thing is its timing. Valverde has scored the seven goals he has this season since 2026 began, just when the team needed it most due to the injuries of Mbappé and Bellingham.
A great goal to remember
The match also gave us a gem from Arda Güler. In the 89th minute, the Turk shot from more than 10 meters behind midfield and chipped the ball over the goalkeeper. Pure magic.
With this victory, Madrid remains one point behind Barcelona. But the mind is already in England: on Tuesday they visit City for the return of the Champions League.
The big doubt is Mbappé. Arbeloa confirmed that they will test the Frenchman in training to see if he can help in Manchester. He’s been out since February because of that knee problem.
The rest of the day
Meanwhile, Atlético won 1-0 against a Getafe team that played with ten. The expulsion was controversial: Abqar saw a straight red card for an improper touch on Sorloth, although he said it was not intentional.
Down the table, Oviedo beat Valencia and keeps their hopes alive. Every point counts when you fight not to fall.
