Vinícius Júnior apologised after being sent off in Real Madrid's 2-1 comeback win over Valencia on Friday in the first LaLiga game of 2025. Hugo Duro put Valencia ahead in the first half at Mestalla Stadium before an eventful second period saw Jude Bellingham miss a penalty -- hitting the post -- and Kylian Mbappé have a goal disallowed for offside.

The win took it to 43 points, two above city rival Atletico, albeit having played a game more.. Jude Bellingham missed a penalty but scored a late winner and Vinicius Jr. was sent off as 10-man Real Madrid fought back in the most dramatic of fashions to beat Valencia 2-1 and return to the top of La Liga on Friday.