Real Madrid defeated Valencia 2-0 at Mestalla Stadium on February 8, 2026. The victory moved them to within one point of league leaders Barcelona. Attendance reached 47,515 spectators.
Match Overview
Valencia started strongly and pressured Real Madrid early. However Real Madrid created better chances in the first half. The teams entered halftime with no goals.
Key Moments
Álvaro Carreras, left-back for Real Madrid, scored in the 65th minute. He beat three defenders and slotted the ball into the bottom corner. Valencia nearly equalized when Lucas Beltran hit the post in the 70th minute.
Kylian Mbappe, forward for Real Madrid, added the second goal in stoppage time. Brahim Diaz assisted him for a close range finish. This marked Mbappe’s 23rd league goal of the season.
Player Performances
Carreras delivered a standout performance with his individual brilliance. Mbappe created opportunities and sealed the win. Stole Dimitrievski, goalkeeper for Valencia, made key saves.
Additionally Arda Guler, midfielder for Real Madrid, threatened with shots. Valencia fans expressed frustration and chanted for manager Pablo Corberan’s resignation.
Post-Match Reactions
Álvaro Arbeloa, manager of Real Madrid, described the result as a good night’s work. He stated, “A good night’s work for Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa’s team, resulting in a comfortable victory.”
Meanwhile Valencia supporters waved white handkerchiefs in protest. One fan account noted, “Valencia fans chanting: ‘Corberan, it’s time to go!’ while waving the white flags.”
Broader Implications
The win maintained Real Madrid’s perfect record in 2026. Valencia stayed one point above the relegation zone. Meanwhile Real Madrid now held 57 points from 18 wins, three draws, and two losses.
