VJunior Initiate, Killian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham… How many moments this season have they come through for Real Madrid when it mattered the most? How often have they turned the tide in crucial games when hope seemed lost?

However, in the derby against Athletic Bilbao, the stars faltered (Mbappé was sidelined due to injury), leaving Federico Valverde to step up. With a magnificent goal in stoppage time, he secured the victory and rekindled the “royal club’s” hopes of catching up with Barcelona in the title race.

It’s not the first time Fede has put Real ahead, nor the first time he has done it with a critical goal, but this strike against their formidable rivals from the Basque Country could hold significant weight—especially if the “Whites” retain their La Liga title.

Here are the players who stood out during the European football weekend:

THE GOALKEEPER

Leno (Fulham) – The “Cottagers” held the lead against Chelsea for much of the match, thanks largely to the German keeper, but Fulham couldn’t maintain their advantage—Chelsea turned the tables late on and continued to chase a Champions League spot.

DEFENSE

Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool) – Regardless of what the future holds for the talented right-back, be it a transfer to Real Madrid or not, no one doubts his claim that Liverpool is his true passion. He netted a goal for the “Reds” against Leicester, bringing them closer to the title at “Anfield”.

O’Reilly (Manchester City) – Amidst a disappointing season for Manchester City, one positive takeaway is that Pep Guardiola has discovered a young player he can depend on.

THE MIDFIELD

Valverde (Real Madrid) – The Uruguayan’s capabilities on the pitch are immense. He probably would receive more recognition at other clubs than he currently does at Real…

Ederson (Atalanta) – He may be a potential signing for Real Madrid, as his consistent performances at Atalanta have caught the eyes of top clubs globally. He clinched the derby against Milan, drawing interest from two Manchester clubs as well.

McTominay (Napoli) – The Scot is renowned for his reliability on the ball, a trait coveted by Antonio Conte. McTominay is a better player now than he was one or two years ago, contributing significantly to Napoli’s pursuit of the Scudetto.

THE ATTACK

Ursulines (Bologna) – The acrobatic finish and brilliant goal against Inter were equally celebrated by Napoli fans and Bologna supporters, who believe their club has a chance to qualify for the Champions League for a second consecutive year.

Rafinha (Barcelona) – The catalyst for Barça’s remarkable comeback against Celta. He first assisted Denmark Olma for the 3:2 lead and then netted twice to steer the Catalans closer to the title.

David (Lille) – He may not be the top scorer in Ligue 1, trailing behind Ousmane Dembele and Mason Greenwood, but the Canadian showcased his talents—his future seemingly lies with either Barça, Inter, or in the Premier League.

Girassi (Borussia Dortmund) – If Borussia secures a Champions League spot, it will be thanks to their coach Nick Kovač and this goal-scoring sensation from Guinea.

Kane (Bayern) – Anticipating his first career title, Bayern currently holds an eight-point lead over Bayer Leverkusen with four rounds left to play.

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