Last-gasp deflected strike by Valverde gives Real Madrid 2-1 victory at Celta Vigo

MADRID — Federico Valverde’s heavily deflected drive in the 94th minute lifted Real Madrid to a dramatic 2-1 victory over Celta Vigo on Friday night, halting a two-game slide and trimming Barcelona’s La Liga lead to a single point.

Needing a response after consecutive defeats, Madrid struck first in the 11th minute when Aurélien Tchouaméni found space just inside the area and drilled a low shot that left goalkeeper Ionut Radu rooted to the spot.

Celta responded through veteran striker Borja Iglesias, who continued his rich form by sweeping home an equaliser in the 25th minute for his third goal in four matches. The hosts came within inches of a late winner when Iago Aspas rattled the woodwork with two minutes remaining, but the decisive moment arrived deep into added time.

Valverde collected possession 25 metres out and unleashed a drive that took a wicked nick off a defender, wrong-footing Radu and sparking wild celebrations among the Madrid players.

“It hurts because it was right at the death,” Iglesias admitted afterwards. “It’s a bit frustrating.”

The result moves Madrid onto 63 points, one behind Barcelona ahead of the leaders’ trip to Athletic Bilbao on Saturday.