Real Madrid vs Celta Vigo: A Thrilling Copa del Rey Clash
Real Madrid vs Celta Vigo: A Thrilling Copa del Rey Clash
Football fans were treated to a nail-biting encounter on January 16, 2025, as Real Madrid battled Celta Vigo in the Copa del Rey Round of 16. Held at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu, the match had it all: brilliant goals, dramatic comebacks, and extra-time heroics. Here's a detailed look at how the game unfolded.
First Half: A Slow Start with a Burst of Brilliance
The match began cautiously, with both teams taking their time to settle. Real Madrid had most of the possession but struggled to break through Celta Vigo's organized defense.
It wasn’t until the 37th minute that Kylian Mbappé showcased his class. Picking up the ball just outside the box, he weaved through defenders and slotted it past the goalkeeper to give Real Madrid a 1-0 lead. The Bernabéu erupted, and Madrid went into halftime with a slim advantage.
Second Half: Drama and Determination
The second half kicked off with Real Madrid in full flow. Just three minutes in, Vinícius Júnior doubled their lead with a clinical finish after a clever pass from Luka Modrić. At 2-0, it looked like the home team was cruising to victory.
However, Celta Vigo had other plans. Jonathan Bamba pulled one back in the 63rd minute with a stunning strike from outside the box. This goal rejuvenated the visitors, and their persistence paid off in the 82nd minute when Marcos Alonso headed in a perfectly delivered corner to level the match at 2-2.
Extra Time: Endrick Steals the Show
With the score tied, the match went into extra time, and this is where the game turned into a showcase of young talent. Real Madrid’s teenage sensation, Endrick, took center stage.
In the 96th minute, Endrick fired in a sensational goal, restoring Madrid’s lead. Just minutes later, he scored again, this time with a composed finish after a swift counter-attack. Federico Valverde sealed the deal with a thunderous strike in the 114th minute, making the final score 5-2.
Key Performances
- Kylian Mbappé: Opened the scoring with a moment of brilliance.
- Vinícius Júnior: Played a crucial role in extending the lead.
- Endrick: The teenager delivered under pressure, scoring twice in extra time.
- Federico Valverde: Capped off the night with a long-range stunner.
What This Means for Real Madrid
Real Madrid’s victory sends them into the Copa del Rey quarter-finals. However, despite the convincing scoreline, the team faced moments of vulnerability, particularly during Celta Vigo’s comeback. Manager Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged the need for defensive improvements, especially as Madrid eyes tougher challenges ahead.
Keywords :
- Real Madrid vs Celta Vigo
- Copa del Rey 2025
- Endrick Real Madrid
- Santiago Bernabéu
- Kylian Mbappé goals
- Vinícius Júnior highlights
- Federico Valverde stunner
- Celta Vigo comeback
- Extra-time heroics
- Ancelotti's reaction
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