Real Madrid Defeats Valencia to Maintain Pressure on League Leaders Barcelona

Real Madrid defeated Valencia 3-0 on Saturday at Mestalla Stadium, securing an eighth consecutive win across all competitions to move level on points with La Liga leaders Barcelona.

Federico Valverde and Arda Guler scored first-half goals, while Kylian Mbappe added a third in the 75th minute to seal the result for the visitors.

The victory keeps Jose Mourinho’s side in a tight race at the top of the table as they trail Barcelona only on goal difference.

Valencia coach Javier Aguirre expressed frustration regarding his team's struggles at home after the loss. "Aguirre told EFE he was worried about failing to win any of his three matches at Mestalla," according to Yahoo Sports.

The match was marked by physical play, with Valencia committing 26 fouls compared to six by Madrid, according to Goal.com.

Valencia finished the game with 10 men after Jose Gaya received a red card for a late sliding challenge on Mbappe with approximately 10 minutes remaining.

Valencia officials indicated they believed the punishment for Gaya’s challenge was harsh, as reported by Yahoo Sports.

Madrid controlled the game with 68 percent possession and 19 shots, while Valencia struggled to create significant scoring opportunities, managing only four shots throughout the match.

Thibaut Courtois made a critical save in the 20th minute to deny Aaron Mayol, who had intercepted a pass near the Madrid penalty area.

The match was paused in the ninth minute as players and fans honored Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel, who died earlier in the week.

Valencia sits 19th in the league standings with nine points, while Madrid prepares for their next league fixture against Celta Vigo on November 22.