Marco Asensio scored a screamer before Vinicius Junior netted his 50th goal for Real Madrid to help Carlo Ancelotti’s side beat Valencia 2-0 and close the gap on Barcelona to five points.
Despite being without a manager, following Gennaro Gattuso’s sacking on Monday, Valencia were resilient and held firm against the reigning Spanish and European champions.
The hosts did have chances, with Marco Asensio twice being denied in the first half. Real Madrid thought they had the lead in added time, but VAR ruled out Antonio Rudiger’s header because of a foul by Karim Benzema in the build-up.
Asensio wouldn’t be denied for a third time, as he fired an unstoppable effort from the edge of the box that left Giorgi Mamardashvili with no chance. It got even better for Real Madrid just three minutes, as Vinicius Jr showed composure to finish after a solo run.
Thursday’s match was Vinicius’ 200th appearance for Real Madrid, and the 22-year-old aptly marked it with a goal. He was involved again in the game’s final flashpoint, as Valencia defender Gabriel Paulista was sent off for kicking out at his fellow Brazilian.