Federico Valverde delivered a dramatic 94th-minute winner as Real Madrid defeated Celta Vigo 2-1 at Balaídos, keeping their LaLiga title hopes alive. Aurélien Tchouaméni had opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a curling effort from the edge of the box, but Borja Iglesias equalized for the home side before Valverde's deflected strike secured all three points.

Former Real Madrid defender Álvaro Arbeloa praised Valverde's performance, calling him "everything a Real Madrid player should be" and comparing his fighting spirit to club legend Juanito. The victory came at a crucial time for head coach Arbeloa, who had faced mounting pressure after consecutive defeats to Osasuna and Getafe. The win cuts the gap to league leaders Barcelona to just one point.

The match also showcased Real Madrid's youth development, with teenagers Thiago Pitarch, César Palacios and Manuel Ángel featuring prominently. Arbeloa highlighted their contributions, noting it's been years since players like Gonzalo García and Raúl Asencio emerged from the academy. With nine first-team players absent through injury and suspension, the depth of the squad was tested but ultimately delivered when it mattered most.