Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili added an unexpected layer of intrigue to his team’s recent 2-1 victory over Real Madrid, revealing a pre-match bet with Vinícius Júnior concerning the Brazilian’s first-half penalty.

Following the penalty awarded to Real Madrid in the 13th minute, Mamardashvili proposed a wager of €50 to Vinícius, predicting he would save the spot-kick. The Georgian goalkeeper subsequently fulfilled his prediction, diving to his right to deny Vinícius the opening goal.

While Vinícius did find the net later in the match, Valencia ultimately secured the win thanks to a late goal from Hugo Duro. Post-match, Mamardashvili humorously noted, “I had a conversation with Vinicius, and I won €50. He ought to pay me, but he hasn’t yet.”

Beyond the lighthearted wager, Mamardashvili’s performance was a crucial factor in Valencia’s triumph, with several key saves contributing significantly to their victory. The penalty save, however, adds a memorable anecdote to a game already rich in narrative.

Real Madrid suffered a 2-1 defeat to Valencia on Saturday, a match compounded by Vinicius Jr.’s missed penalty. The Brazilian forward faced audible disapproval from the home crowd following the unsuccessful attempt.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti, addressing the situation post-match, maintained confidence in his player. “Vinicius is focused on what he’s doing,” Ancelotti stated. “He may play well or poorly, but he’s focused on what he’s doing.”

While acknowledging the setback in the La Liga title race, Ancelotti affirmed the team’s resolve. “It’s much more difficult to fight for the league title now, but we’re determined to do well until the end,” he commented. He also alluded to a pattern of penalty misses this season, citing other prominent players who have faced similar struggles.

The loss leaves Real Madrid trailing Barcelona by four points in the league standings, adding pressure as the season progresses.

Following Argentina’s resounding 4-1 victory over Brazil in their recent World Cup qualifier, captain Lionel Messi has lauded his teammates’ performance. Despite not featuring in the match, Messi took to social media to congratulate the squad on their impressive win.

In an Instagram story posted Wednesday, Messi stated, “Inside, outside, wherever it may be with this National Team. Always SPEAKING through football.” He further added, “Congratulations on the great match you played last night and also on the win against Uruguay.”

The victory solidifies Argentina’s position atop the South American standings with 31 points. Brazil, on the other hand, currently occupies fourth place with 21 points. Messi’s commendation highlights the team’s collective effort in their pursuit of World Cup qualification.