Real Madrid edged Celta Vigo 2-1 at Estadio Abanca-Balaídos in a tight LaLiga match, and Federico Valverde’s late finish made the difference. The three points helped Los Blancos steady themselves after a rough run and stay in the title race in a season where little separates the top sides.
Under the Friday night lights, Madrid scored early, then saw Celta hit back, and finally found a winner deep into added time.
Match Highlights
- 11th minute: Real Madrid went ahead through Aurélien Tchouaméni, who smashed in a long-range shot after an Arda Güler setup. The strike flew past the Celta keeper.
- 24th minute: Celta Vigo tied it at 1-1 when Borja Iglesias finished a quick move, meeting a sharp pass from Williot Swedberg on the break.
- 90+4th minute: Federico Valverde restored Madrid’s lead with a calm stoppage-time finish, sealing the away win.
Both teams had chances, yet Real Madrid kept their heads when it mattered most. After Valverde’s goal, Celta pushed forward right away, but Madrid’s back line held firm to close it out.
Because of recent defeats, this result felt even bigger for Carlo Ancelotti’s side as they chase the LaLiga crown.
Real Madrid Player Ratings and Statistics
Real Madrid controlled the ball for long spells and produced more looks at goal, although Celta made them earn every inch.
| Player | Position | Key Stats | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thibaut Courtois | GK | 4 saves | 7.5 |
| Federico Valverde | MF | Goal (90+4′), 3 key passes | 8.8 |
| Aurélien Tchouaméni | MF | Goal (11′), 85% pass accuracy | 8.2 |
| Arda Güler | MF | Assist (Tchouaméni goal) | 7.9 |
| Vinícius Júnior | FW | 4 shots, constant threat | 7.7 |
| Kylian Mbappé | FW | Dangerous runs, 3 chances created | 7.6 |
| Jude Bellingham | MF | 2 tackles, midfield control | 7.4 |
Team Totals (Real Madrid): Possession 58%, Shots 14 (6 on target), Corners 7, Fouls 11.
In the end, Madrid showed grit, and Valverde supplied the moment that swung the match.
Celta Vigo Player Ratings and Statistics
Celta Vigo brought energy at home, pulled level, and stayed dangerous on counters, but they couldn’t find a second goal.
| Player | Position | Key Stats | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Borja Iglesias | FW | Goal (24′), physical presence | 7.8 |
| Williot Swedberg | FW | Assist (Iglesias’ goal), 3 shots | 7.6 |
| Iván Villar | GK | 5 saves, strong performance | 7.4 |
| Óscar Mingueza | DF | Solid defending, 4 clearances | 7.1 |
| Javi Rodríguez | DF | Key interceptions | 7.0 |
| Ilaix Moriba | MF | Creative in midfield | 6.9 |
Team Totals (Celta Vigo): Possession 42%, Shots 10 (4 on target), Corners 4, Fouls 13.
Even with the loss, Celta can build on this display, since they matched Real Madrid for long stretches when they stayed organized.
Post-Match Reaction
After the match, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti pointed to his team’s mindset: “It was a tough game, but we showed quality and belief. Valverde’s goal was crucial, and we take three important points.”
On the other side, Celta boss Claudio Giráldez focused on the fine margins: “We fought hard and deserved more, but small details decided it. Proud of the effort against a top side.”
With this win, Real Madrid stay near the top of LaLiga, while Celta remain in the mix in mid-table. Above all, the night was another reminder that in Spain’s top flight, teams can push the favorites all the way to the final whistle.
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