Jude Bellingham whipped in the cross, and the breakdown inside the area set up the right-footed volley for Madrid's pink-shirted No 15. A trademark celebration followed, offering yet another glimpse of his breakthrough campaign.

Real Madrid continue to reap the rewards of Arda Guler's development. The youngster offers far more than just creativity; he directly decides matches. While it came from a rebound, he displayed ruthless predatory instincts to be in the right place at the right time.

The closing stages of the first half descended into constant friction following several flashpoints. Valencia trudged into the interval frustrated and facing a monumental uphill battle to mount a comeback against the 'Merengues'.