The match started sluggishly, with both teams appearing drained from their midweek exertions. Vinicius Junior troubled Athletic's right-back Andoni Gorosabel early on, firing a fierce 25-yard shot just over the bar in the 27th minute.

Moments later, Aitor Paredes stretched to intercept a pinpoint Eduardo Camavinga pass aimed for Rodrygo, thwarting a dangerous move. Real Madrid dominated with five first-half corners, but Valverde's flicked header, which drifted wide, was their closest effort.

Athletic, holding just 25% possession, offered little, with Gorka Guruzeta's mistimed overhead kick their only notable attempt.

Real Madrid emerged revitalised after the break, spurred by Carlo Ancelotti's half-time words. Camavinga drove forward, setting up Rodrygo for a curling shot that missed the target before seeing his own powerful effort tipped over by Unai Simon.

The Athletic goalkeeper, Spain's first choice, then produced a world-class save to deny Jude Bellingham's header from Vinicius' precise cross.

The Bernabeu roared in the 80th minute when Vinicius slotted home at the near post, only for VAR to rule out the goal due to a marginal offside call against substitute Endrick.

Athletic, boasting La Liga's stingiest defence, seemed poised to hold firm. But in the fifth minute of stoppage time, Valverde unleashed a spectacular volley that looped into the top corner, sparking wild celebrations.

"This win shows our character," Ancelotti said post-match. "We kept fighting until the end." Valverde, reflecting on his goal, added, "It's a moment I'll never forget, but the team's spirit is what matters most."

The victory, following Real Madrid's midweek Champions League exit to Arsenal, cut Barcelona's lead at the top to four points after their rivals' win. It also boosted confidence ahead of their Copa del Rey final.

Athletic, despite their 17th loss in 20 visits to the Bernabeu, remain on track for Champions League qualification.

Recent X posts from Real Madrid's official account hailed Valverde's "moment of magic" and shared footage of the ecstatic scenes, while Athletic's Ernesto Valverde praised his team's resilience, saying, "We fought hard, but that goal was something special."

READ MORE: Leicester relegated as Liverpool move to edge of Premier League glory

ZANDER REYNDERS

Blitzbok call-up still sinking in for Reynders ahead of Vancouver challenge

Editors Pick