Real Madrid continued their impressive run of form with a convincing 3-0 victory over Valencia at Mestalla.
It was the eighth consecutive victory for Jose Mourinho’s side across all competitions, as Los Blancos head into the November international break in strong form.
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The encounter against Valencia was not without controversy, though, with defender Pablo Maffeo involved.
The defender, who has a history of heated encounters with Los Blancos, once again found himself at the centre of attention.
This time, however, former Real Madrid superstar Marcelo could not resist taking a dig at the Spaniard on social media.
“Maffeo really has it in for MADRID… my goodness,” Marcelo wrote on X, mockingly referring to the Valencia defender as ‘Masfeo’.
“And a goal,” the Brazilian added, celebrating Madrid’s breakthrough during the first half.
The incident came after Maffeo was penalised for a foul on Kylian Mbappe just outside Valencia’s penalty area.
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Maffeo received a yellow card for the challenge. Mbappe’s resulting free-kick struck the wall, and Fede Valverde collected the rebound to score Real Madrid’s opening goal.
Maffeo was visibly frustrated with the decision and subsequently criticised the refereeing during his half-time interview with DAZN.
“I don’t feel like doing this interview at all. It’s rubbish,” he complained, before insisting that the foul leading to Madrid’s opening goal should never have been awarded.
Maffeo has been involved in a series of controversies against Real Madrid, dating back to his time at Mallorca.
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At his former club, he was often involved in heated exchanges with Vinicius Jr., including controversial challenges and gestures towards the Brazilian.
Pablo Maffeo’s personal vendetta against Real Madrid are well documented. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
Although Maffeo previously claimed the pair had resolved their differences, it looks like he has now found a new bone to pick with Real Madrid.
The important thing for Mourinho’s men was that they had the last laugh on Saturday and secured all three points.
Maffeo is likely to receive a hostile reception when he visits the Santiago Bernabeu, and it remains to be seen how this battle pans out in future meetings.
