• Federico Valverde scored a late winner to help Real Madrid secure a 1-0 victory against Athletic Bilbao.
• This win keeps Real Madrid four points behind LaLiga leaders Barcelona.
• Real Madrid's coach Carlo Ancelotti praised the team's improved performance after their Champions League exit.

Real Madrid clinched a crucial 1-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao, with Federico Valverde scoring a stunning volley in stoppage time. This win keeps them within four points of LaLiga leaders Barcelona, boosting their title hopes. After a disappointing exit from the Champions League earlier in the week, this victory marks a vital rebound for the team, now totaling 69 points and six clear of third-placed Atletico Madrid, who faced a shock loss to Las Palmas. "Fede has a very unusual shot, a very good one," remarked goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, praising Valverde's exceptional skill. The late strike came after Athletic's strong defensive showing, which frustrated Madrid for most of the match before finally breaking down in injury time, according to channelnewsasia, aljazeera, and reuters.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti commended his players for their effort and resilience throughout the match. He acknowledged that the team initially struggled but improved significantly in the second half. "We were a bit slower in the first half, but in the second half we did very well in every aspect," Ancelotti stated, highlighting the team’s desire to bounce back after their Champions League setback. Valverde's goal not only highlighted his individual talent but also encapsulated a much-needed team response, according to channelnewsasia and dawn.

Real Madrid faced a tough challenge from a heavily rotated Athletic side, who managed to keep them at bay for most of the match. Despite all their efforts, Athletic failed to produce significant offensive threats, leaving them fourth in the LaLiga standings with 57 points. Athletic's Alex Berenguer remarked on the psychological challenge of playing against a formidable Real Madrid side at the Bernabeu, stating, "We know what Real Madrid are like at the Bernabeu," reflecting on the difficulty of consistently defending against such quality, according to channelnewsasia, aljazeera, and reuters.