Real Madrid’s first clash of 2025 against Valencia will be remembered for its series of dramas and emotions. It was a match that had all the makings of a cinematic thriller: a series of twists and turns culminating in a thrilling ending. The match began with a goal conceded by Real in the first 30 minutes, followed by a missed penalty and a goal disallowed for an apparently inapplicable offside. The Madrilenians then had to struggle for the last ten minutes with only ten men on the pitch. However, in a remarkable turnaround, they snatched victory thanks to goals from Luka Modrić and Jude Bellingham in the final moments of injury time, sealing the match at 1-2. Valencia came close to equalizing, but a miraculous save from Thibaut Courtois kept the score intact.
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Much discussion surrounded the match, particularly regarding the referee’s decisions. Many believe that Hugo Duro’s first goal for Valencia should have been canceled due to an earlier foul on Rodrygo during the action. Additionally, confusion remains as to why the penalty awarded to Valencia was not taken again, since the Valencia goalkeeper and a Valencia player appeared to have crossed the line.
However, the subject that is being debated concerns the controversial red card shown to Vinícius Jr. for an altercation with Valencia goalkeeper Dimitrievski. After footage showed Dimitrievski pulling on Vinícius’ braids, Vinícius retaliated by heading for the goalkeeper’s neck. Dimitrievski fell to the ground, leading to a VAR check which resulted in Vinícius being sent off.
In a fit of frustration, Vinícius had to be restrained by his teammate Antonio Rudiger. After the match, he apologized, saying: “I’m sorry, thank you team,” accompanied by two-finger emoji, likely suggesting Valencia’s struggles this season.
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It was the second time Vinícius Jr. received a red card during his seven years at Madrid. Fortunately for the Spanish giants, what could have been a crushing defeat turned into a triumphant moment in the final fifteen minutes, as Modrić and Bellingham secured victory, even with a diminished team.
