Arda Guler’s brilliance hands Real Madrid a narrow but crucial 1-0 LaLiga win at Getafe
Real Madrid edged closer to Barcelona in the LaLiga title race thanks to a stunning strike from young Turkish talent Arda Guler, as Los Blancos battled to a gritty 1-0 win over a stubborn Getafe side at the Estadio Coliseum.
This hard-earned win marked Real Madrid’s third consecutive away victory in LaLiga, trimming Barça’s lead at the top to just four points. Carlo Ancelotti made six changes to his starting lineup, rotating heavily with one eye on the upcoming Copa del Rey final clash against Barcelona. Despite the changes, Madrid’s squad depth was enough to see them through a tricky encounter in southern Madrid.
From the first whistle, Getafe showed they were not there to roll over. José Bordalás’ team came out swinging, pressing high and threatening early through Luis Milla, who forced a smart save from Thibaut Courtois. The hosts used their physicality and direct approach to rattle the visitors, creating some nervous moments for the much-altered Real defense.
Getafe nearly grabbed the opener when Borja Mayoral nodded a Juan Iglesias cross just wide of the post. On the other end, Real Madrid responded with a lightning-quick break led by Fran García, but his shot was denied by a strong David Soria save.
The breakthrough finally came midway through the first half, and it was worth the wait. A failed clearance by Getafe fell kindly for Arda Guler, who didn’t hesitate. The 19-year-old wonderkid unleashed a rocket from outside the box that flew past Soria and nestled into the top corner—his first LaLiga goal of the season, and one that could prove vital in the title chase.
What a goal from Arda Guler , mind blowing pic.twitter.com/GVugKF6gPw
— Kobi Stereo (@Kobi_Stereo) April 24, 2025
Madrid could have doubled their advantage shortly afterward through Endrick. The Brazilian forward, who linked up neatly with Vinicius Junior, was denied a certain goal when Getafe captain Djené Dakonam cleared his shot off the line. The visiting side were growing in confidence, but Getafe still carried a threat on the counter.
After the break, Getafe tried to claw their way back into the game. Álvaro Rodríguez, on loan from Real Madrid, nearly punished his parent club with a glancing header that just skimmed the crossbar after meeting a well-placed cross from Coba da Costa.
Carlo Ancelotti’s men responded by pushing for a second goal. Brahim Díaz forced a sharp save from Soria, while Vinicius Junior, full of energy and flair on the left wing, dribbled past defenders for fun but couldn’t find the finishing touch. His curled effort flew just over the bar after one of his trademark runs inside.
Getafe weren’t giving up easily, and the crowd roared every time they pushed forward. Borja Mayoral continued to be a thorn in Madrid’s side, and his cross almost led to an equalizer when Mauro Arambarri blasted wide from close range.
But for all their effort, Getafe couldn’t find a way past a disciplined and composed Madrid backline. Antonio Rüdiger and Nacho Fernández stood strong, while Courtois remained alert whenever called upon.
The only real concern for Ancelotti came late in the second half when Eduardo Camavinga pulled up with what looked like a groin issue. The midfielder was subbed off immediately, and the Italian coach will be hoping it’s nothing serious ahead of Saturday’s cup final.
Getafe’s misery continued, as Bordalás extended his winless record against Real Madrid to 15 matches in LaLiga (13 losses, 2 draws). The hosts have now won just once in their last eight home league games, leaving them stuck in 12th position, far from European contention.
For Real Madrid, the mission was simple—win and keep the pressure on Barcelona. And while it wasn’t a flashy performance, it was effective, professional, and just enough to get the job done. Once again, it was a moment of individual magic that made the difference—this time from the boots of a teenager making his mark at one of the biggest clubs in the world.
Arda Guler’s screamer lit up an otherwise cagey affair and reminded everyone of the raw talent waiting in the wings for Madrid. With the LaLiga race still very much alive, it’s these tight, ugly wins that often matter most in the end.
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