Carlo Ancelotti praised Federico Valverde as key after the midfielder's goal in the 93rd minute gave Real Madrid a dramatic 1-0 win over Athletic Club on Monday, April 21, 2025, early morning WIB.

The Italian coach called this a reaction to Los Blanco's elimination from the Champions League in the middle of the week.

After a disappointing first half, Real Madrid improved in the second half at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Vinicius Junior - the outstanding player in that match - was ruled out for offside before Valverde's sensational goal in injury time.

The result left Real Madrid four points behind Barcelona's leaders in the La Liga standings, as Ancelotti's side tried to bounce back after being knocked out by Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals.

"Valverde was key. The team played well. We were a little slower in the first half, but in the second half we played well."

"We want to win, to react after being knocked out (in the Champions League). The team is playing well, and Fede is a key player," Ancelotti told a news conference after the game.

Meanwhile, Vinicius has faced criticism for his performances in recent weeks.

He has been ridiculed by several supporters at Bernabeu, but responded with a committed performance against Athletic.

"Vinicius is extraordinary. He has a fantastic attitude. He scored (which was disallowed), provided some key passes for (Jude) Bellingham, he has always been a determinant," said Ancelotti.

The Brazil international appeared to have put Real Madrid ahead in the 80th minute, but his goal was ruled out by VAR because Endrick's substitute was in an offside position.

"Those are not fun days for (Vini) or for us. I really like the reaction on the pitch. It will be very important in the upcoming game, I don't doubt it," said Ancelotti.

Real Madrid will travel to Getafe on Thursday, April 24, 2025, in La Liga, before facing Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final next Saturday.

With Kylian Mbappe out of suspension - and a light ankle injury - Ancelotti played Bellingham a false nine, a role that helped him in his first season with Real Madrid.

"That's the position that gave us a big advantage last season. Bellingham played well in the second half."

"We moved a lot outside, sent in a cross, and he played smart in the penalty box. He deserved to score," said Ancelotti.


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