Ancelotti hails Real Madrid’s spirit after vital win over Athletic Bilbao

MADRID: Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti praised his team’s character and resilience after a crucial 1-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao on Sunday, a result that keeps their LaLiga title hopes alive just days after their Champions League disappointment.

Federico Valverde’s late strike proved to be the difference at the Santiago Bernabéu, lifting Madrid to 69 points—just four behind leaders Barcelona. The hard-fought win was a timely response to their recent European exit, and Ancelotti was quick to applaud his players’ determination.

“Valverde was the key because he scored the goal,” said Ancelotti. “We wanted to win, to bounce back after being knocked out of the Champions League. It was a good match. We were aggressive and didn’t concede.”

Madrid struggled to break down Bilbao in the first half but improved significantly after the break, with Jude Bellingham deployed as a false nine to great effect. Ancelotti noted the tactical shift gave them an edge: “We didn’t use it in the first half, but we did in the second. He deserved to score.”

The Italian manager also praised Vinicius Jr., who had a goal disallowed and led the line in the absence of the suspended Kylian Mbappe. “He was instrumental,” Ancelotti added.

With just a few matches left in the season, Madrid’s fighting spirit may yet carry them to another league title.