In a thrilling La Liga clash at the Estadio Coliseum on April 23, 2025, Real Madrid clinched a hard-fought 1-0 victory over a resilient, Uche-less Getafe, with young Turkish star Arda Guler delivering a moment of magic to keep Los Blancos within striking distance of league leaders Barcelona. The win, a testament to Madrid’s grit amid a grueling season, narrowed Barcelona’s lead to four points, setting the stage for a tantalizing title race with just five games remaining.
Getafe, missing midfielder Christantus Uche due to a suspension from a red card against Espanyol, tested Madrid’s resolve with a spirited performance. Manager José Bordalás’ side nearly struck early when Luis Milla forced a sharp save from Thibaut Courtois, but it was Guler who stole the spotlight.
In the 21st minute, the 20-year-old, handed a rare start by Carlo Ancelotti, seized a loose clearance, wove past defenders, and unleashed a breathtaking strike from outside the box, the ball kissing the net despite David Soria’s desperate touch. The stadium fell silent, save for the roars of Madrid’s faithful.
Ancelotti, with one eye on the looming Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, rotated heavily, resting Jude Bellingham and sidelining Kylian Mbappé with an ankle injury. Young Endrick, making his first La Liga start, nearly doubled the lead, but his shot, softened by Soria, was cleared off the line by Djene Dakonam. Getafe fought back, with Mauro Arambarri squandering a golden chance, dragging wide with only Courtois to beat. The tension peaked in stoppage time as Getafe’s Álvaro Rodríguez, on loan from Madrid, saw his low effort thwarted by Courtois’ heroic save, preserving the clean sheet.
The visitors held firm. Guler’s brilliance, coupled with Courtois’ heroics, earned Madrid their third consecutive 1-0 league win, a testament to their defensive resolve. Getafe, now languishing in 12th, rued missed opportunities, their European hopes fading. Ancelotti praised Guler’s “exceptional talent,” while Bordalás lamented his team’s wastefulness. As Madrid prepare for their Clasico showdown, the La Liga race burns brighter than ever.