Real Madrid Edges Getafe 1-0 Ahead of Copa del Rey Final

Real Madrid pulled off a gritty 1-0 win against Getafe in La Liga on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez. The victory keeps them in the hunt, just four points behind league leaders Barcelona, with only five games left. Now, all eyes are on their big Copa del Rey final against Barcelona this Saturday in Seville.

The game’s only goal came from Arda Guler, who fired a sharp right-footed shot in the 21st minute. Coach Carlo Ancelotti shook things up, resting stars like Jude Bellingham, who came on later, and giving young Brazilian Endrick his first La Liga start. Vinícius Junior also got a breather in the second half, saving his legs for the weekend. But the win wasn’t without worry, midfielder Eduardo Camavinga hobbled off late with what looked like a muscle injury, and David Alaba, subbed out at halftime, might not be fit for the final either.

Getafe, sitting 12th in the league, didn’t make it easy. They came alive in the second half, firing off 20 shots. Madrid’s goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois stood tall, especially with a clutch save in stoppage time to deny Alvaro Rodriguez. Getafe’s failure to score left them with their third straight loss. The game also hit a brief pause when Getafe fans aimed offensive chants at Madrid’s Dani Ceballos.

Ancelotti was pleased with his team’s fight, especially after catching heat for their recent Champions League loss to Arsenal. “We knew it’d be a battle,” Güler said after the match. “This win gives us a boost for the final.” It’s Madrid’s third league win in a row, keeping their title dreams alive as they gear up for a huge La Liga clash with Barcelona on May 11.

With the Copa del Rey final looming, Madrid’s got to navigate injuries and keep their momentum. Barcelona had their number this season, including a 4-0 league thrashing and a 5-2 Spanish Super Cup win, making Saturday’s showdown a must-watch.