Real Madrid left Mestalla with three points after a professional 2–0 win over Valencia — a match that wasn’t always pretty, but one that was ultimately decided by defensive resolve, strong midfield work, and a couple of key moments in the final third.
Los Blancos didn’t need heroics from Thibaut Courtois, but they did get a crucial breakthrough from Álvaro Carreras and a late dagger from Kylian Mbappé to seal the result.
Here are the player ratings from the victory:
A rare quiet night for Courtois. Valencia never truly tested him, and he didn’t have to make a single save, but he remained composed and steady throughout.
Had some issues defensively, getting beat by Gayà and struggling with the physicality at times….