- Arda Guler scored the decisive goal as Real Madrid beat Getafe 1–0 away from home
- Real survived a late scare, with Courtois making crucial saves and Camavinga forced off injured
- The win kept Real four points behind Barcelona with five La Liga rounds remaining
Key Takeaways:
Real Madrid secured a hard-fought 1:0 victory in their away clash with city neighbours Getafe in Matchday 33 of La Liga. The defending champions did not deliver their most convincing performance of the season, but ultimately what mattered most were the three crucial points that kept them alive in the title race. With five rounds to go, Real remain four points behind Barcelona, and any potential slip-up at this stage could effectively end their push for first place.
😄 @10ardaguler 😄 pic.twitter.com/Qx6Q30OKia
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) April 23, 2025
Los Blancos played a strong opening half, taking the lead through a beautiful strike from Arda Guler in the 38th minute. The Turkish youngster’s effort put the visitors in front, and the team remained in control, looking calm and composed throughout the half.
The second period told a different story. Real unexpectedly handed over the initiative to Getafe and were fortunate not to concede in the closing stages. Getafe pressed aggressively, and Courtois was called upon to make two key saves that preserved the narrow lead. Real even had to finish the match with ten men because Eduardo Camavinga picked up an injury and was forced off, with Ancelotti having already used all his substitutions.
In the end, Real held on and escaped what could have been a costly draw, keeping their title hopes alive. Up next, the two title rivals meet in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday. After that, Real host Celta, while Barcelona travel to Valladolid, with a potentially decisive El Clásico still looming on the horizon.