June 25, 2025
World
World
THE HAGUE, June 25 — U.S. President Donald Trump claimed today that missile strikes over the weekend caused severe damage to Iranian nuclear sites, although he admitted that the intelligence available was inconclusive.
MADRID, April 21 — Fede Valverde's stunning 93rd-minute strike kept Real Madrid firmly in the La Liga title race, securing a hard-fought 1-0 win over Athletic Bilbao yesterday.
The Uruguayan midfielder fired a swerving effort into the top corner in stoppage time, ensuring Madrid remained just four points behind leaders Barcelona.
Following their Champions League exit at the hands of Arsenal, Madrid seemed on the verge of another disappointing result—until Valverde stepped up with his late moment of brilliance.
“Fede has such a powerful shot… yesterday in training he hit one that seemed like it was going out, then suddenly curled back in—you just wonder how he does it,” said Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. “He pulls off shots like that once or twice a week.”
Athletic Bilbao, fresh from their Europa League semi-final qualification after defeating Rangers, rotated their squad heavily. Even so, they proved difficult for Madrid to break down, especially with Kylian Mbappé absent due to suspension and an ankle injury. Some fans even jeered the French star after he was spotted watching the Arsenal match on the stadium screens midweek.
“Valverde was decisive in this game because he scored the winning goal,” said Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti. “We were a bit slow in the first half, but the second half was much better. The team responded well after the Arsenal loss, and Fede was the standout.”
Vinicius Jr., previously criticized by Ancelotti for his defensive effort, impressed with his relentless running on the left wing. Though he has struggled with consistency this season, he was Madrid’s liveliest player, constantly troubling Unai Nunez.
Madrid came out with urgency following their European elimination, aiming to stay in the title chase after Barcelona’s dramatic comeback win over Celta Vigo on Saturday.
Rodrygo threatened early in the second half, and Unai Simon denied Eduardo Camavinga from close range. As pressure mounted, Madrid began carving out more clear chances.
Vinicius delivered a sublime outside-of-the-boot cross to Jude Bellingham, whose header was superbly saved by Simon. Valverde also came close with a shot just wide, while Vinicius had a goal ruled out for offside in the buildup involving Endrick.
Bellingham, who was known for his late heroics last season, missed a golden chance and appealed unsuccessfully for a penalty.
In the end, it was Valverde who seized the spotlight with a thunderous finish that left Simon rooted.
“Valverde has an exceptional shot,” admitted Athletic coach Ernesto Valverde. “We played a strong game, but their individual quality—especially Vinicius—made the difference.”
The victory gives Madrid renewed hope and a timely boost ahead of next weekend’s Copa del Rey final against Barcelona. — AFP
