Valverde's Late Goal Lifts Madrid Over Bilbao

Federico Valverde's 93rd-minute volley secured Real Madrid a 1-0 victory over a heavily rotated Athletic Bilbao, keeping Madrid four points behind Barcelona with six matches remaining in La Liga. Real Madrid dominated possession but struggled to break down Athletic, who rested key players after qualifying for the Europa League semifinals. Vinicius Junior had a goal disallowed by VAR in the 79th minute, while Madrid played without Kylian Mbappé due to suspension. The win comes after Madrid's Champions League elimination by Arsenal, increasing pressure on coach Carlo Ancelotti. Valverde's late goal provided a crucial morale boost and maintained Madrid's 69-point tally, preserving their six-point lead over Atletico Madrid in third. Athletic remain in fourth as they continue their own Champions League qualification pursuit.