MADRID — An early Federico Valverde strike helped Real Madrid to a 2-0 home win against Villarreal in LaLiga on Saturday as Carlo Ancelotti’s men returned to winning ways after two games without a victory.
Real took the lead in the 14th minute with a stunning long-range shot by Valverde following a Luka Modric corner, before Brazilian forward Vinicius, Jr sealed the winin the 73rd with an unstoppable strike into the top corner from outside the box.
The defending champions were in need of a positive performance after losing 1-0 at Lille in the Champions League on Wednesday and being held to a 1-1 stalemate at Atletico Madrid in their previous LaLiga game.
Real, second in the standings, provisionally moved level with Barcelona on 21 points before the LaLiga leaders visit 11th placer Alaves on Sunday.
Villarreal, who have made a strong start to their league campaign with five wins from nine games, are third with 17 points. — Reuters
