Valencia goalkeeper reveals bet with Real Madrid forward that won him €50 – ‘He hasn’t paid me’ | OneFootball

Valencia pulled off a major upset by defeating Real Madrid 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu, and at the heart of that victory was their goalkeeper, Giorgi Mamardashvili.

The Georgian shot-stopper was in inspired form throughout the game, delivering a performance that proved decisive in earning all three points for his team.

The turning point came early in the match when Real Madrid were awarded a penalty in the 12th minute. With the score still 0-0, Vinicius Jr. stepped up, but Mamardashvili guessed correctly and denied him, keeping the score level.

That crucial save set the tone for what would be an outstanding display from the Valencia keeper.

Mamardashvili wasn’t done after the penalty. In the second half, he made three more vital saves to frustrate Real Madrid’s relentless attack.

He reacted brilliantly to stop a long-range effort from Federico Valverde, smothered a threatening loose ball before Lucas Vazquez could pounce, and later blocked a close-range header from Antonio Rudiger.

Penalty bet with Vinicius

Giorgi Mamardashvili denied Vinicius Jr. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

As if the performance was not memorable enough, Mamardashvili revealed after the game that there had been a playful bet involved in the penalty incident.

The goalkeeper shared a light-hearted moment with the press, admitting that he had made a small wager with Vinicius before the spot kick.

He said he had jokingly asked Vinicius if he wanted to bet €50 on the outcome of the penalty. The Brazilian agreed, and when Mamardashvili saved the shot, he technically won the bet.

However, he smiled and pointed out that the money had not yet been paid, though he made it clear he wasn’t bothered.

“I asked him if he wanted to gamble €50 and he said yes. I stopped him and I won.

“He was supposed to pay me after the game, but he hasn’t given it to me yet. It’s no big deal,” said the keeper.

While the bet added a touch of humour to the night, it was Mamardashvili’s focus and brilliance that truly made the difference.

For now, the €50 may be unpaid, but the three points earned in Madrid are priceless for both Mamardashvili and Valencia.