The Santiago Bernabéu has witnessed many things, but few sounds are as satisfying as the thunderous crack of a Federico Valverde strike hitting the back of the net. For months, Madridistas have been checking the stat sheets, waiting for that “0” in the goals column to finally flip.
Tonight, the wait ended.
In a season where Federico Valverde has evolved into the undisputed engine of Carlo Ancelotti’s midfield, the only thing missing was his signature name on the scoresheet. While his work rate, defensive transitions, and leadership have been world-class, we all know Fede thrives on those “Falcon” moments—the long-range rockets that defy physics and break deadlocks.
More Than Just a Goal
This wasn’t just a statistical milestone; it was a release of tension. You could see it in his celebration. Valverde plays with his heart on his sleeve, and while he’s always the first to sacrifice personal glory for the team’s balance, a player of his caliber hungers for the goal.
Since inheriting Toni Kroos’ iconic number 8, the pressure on Valverde to provide both the stability of a veteran and the attacking threat of a modern box-to-box midfielder has been immense. Filling Kroos’ boots is a task most would shrink from, but Fede has embraced it with his trademark grit. By finding the net tonight, he has checked the final box in his transformation into Real Madrid’s “Complete Midfielder.”
The Ancelotti Effect
We all remember the famous bet Carlo Ancelotti made a couple of seasons ago—threatening to tear up his coaching license if Valverde didn’t score at least ten goals. While there may not be a formal bet on the table this year, the Italian manager’s faith in Fede has never wavered.
Ancelotti has often described Valverde as “untouchable,” and for good reason. Whether he is covering for an overlapping fullback, breaking lines with a lung-bursting run, or now, providing the finishing touch, Valverde is the glue that keeps this star-studded squad from coming unglued.
What This Means for the Title Race
As LaLiga heats up, Real Madrid needs contributions from every corner of the pitch. We know Vini Jr. and Mbappé will provide the fireworks, but it’s the goals from the midfield—the “second wave” of the attack—that often decide titles.
With the “Falcon” officially back on the scoresheet, a massive weight has been lifted. When Valverde is confident enough to let fly from distance, it forces opposing defenses to step out, opening up vital space for our strikers. It makes Real Madrid a much more dangerous, unpredictable beast.
The drought is over. The engine is primed. The Falcon has landed.