In a thrilling encounter at the Mestalla, Real Madrid showcased their fighting spirit with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Valencia, despite being reduced to 10 men late in the game.

Late goals from Luka Modric and Jude Bellingham ensured Los Blancos reclaimed the top spot in LaLiga, leaving the relegation-threatened hosts stunned on Friday night.

The match began with Real Madrid dominating possession, but it was Valencia who broke the deadlock in the 27th minute. Hugo Duro capitalised on a rebound after Thibaut Courtois saved Javi Guerra’s initial effort, slotting the ball into an empty net to give the home side a surprise lead.

Real Madrid pushed relentlessly for an equaliser in the second half. A golden opportunity arose when Kylian Mbappé was fouled in the box by Enzo Barrenechea, earning Madrid a penalty in the 55th minute. However, Jude Bellingham, usually so reliable, struck the post, letting Valencia off the hook.

The match took another dramatic turn in the 79th minute when Vinicius Jr received a straight red card for an altercation with Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski. Down to 10 men, Real Madrid looked to be in trouble, but the late heroics were yet to come.

Substitute Luka Modric levelled the score in the 85th minute, finishing expertly after a precise through ball from Bellingham. The Englishman then turned saviour in the dying moments of stoppage time, firing home the winning goal to complete a memorable comeback.

The victory propels Real Madrid to the summit of the LaLiga standings with 43 points, two ahead of Atletico Madrid, who still have a game in hand. Ancelotti’s men once again proved their resilience, and Jude Bellingham’s decisive impact underlines why he remains one of the most influential players in world football.