Real Madrid survived a dramatic late comeback from Celta Vigo to secure a 5-2 victory in the Copa del Rey round of 16 after extra time. Goals from Endrick and Fede Valverde in the closing stages ensured Los Blancos advanced to the quarter-finals.
Match Summary
- First Half: Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring with a brilliant solo goal, showcasing his growing influence in the Madrid attack.
- Second Half: Vinícius Júnior doubled the lead shortly after the break with a well-worked team goal.
- Celta’s Comeback: Substitute Jonathan Bamba pulled one back in the 83rd minute, capitalizing on a Camavinga mistake. Marcos Alonso then equalized from the penalty spot in stoppage time after Bamba won a penalty.
- Extra Time: Endrick stole the show with a stunning late strike and a clever flick for his second goal. Valverde added another to seal the win.
Real Madrid Player Ratings
Starting XI
- GK: Andriy Lunin (6.9/10)
Solid when called upon, but could do little to prevent either of Celta’s goals. - RB: Lucas Vázquez (7.6/10)
Energetic on the right flank, providing defensive stability and contributing in attack. - CB: Raúl Asencio (6.7/10)
Made some crucial interventions but gave away the penalty that allowed Celta to equalize. - CB: Antonio Rüdiger (7.3/10)
Commanding presence at the back, winning key aerial duels. - LB: Fran García (7.5/10)
Worked tirelessly on the left, supporting Vinícius in attack and tracking back effectively. - CM: Luka Modrić (8.2/10)
Controlled the midfield with his vision and passing before being substituted. - CM: Aurélien Tchouaméni (8.8/10)
Dominant performance in midfield, breaking up play and initiating attacks. Named Player of the Match. - CM: Dani Ceballos (8.0/10)
Linked play well and kept Madrid’s midfield ticking with his composure. - RW: Brahim Díaz (8.1/10)
Lively performance, creating chances and stretching Celta’s defense. - ST: Kylian Mbappé (8.3/10)
Scored a sensational opener and was a constant threat before being substituted. - LW: Vinícius Júnior (8.0/10)
Scored Madrid’s second goal and linked up effectively with Mbappé and García.
Substitutes
- Eduardo Camavinga (5.8/10)
Sloppy in possession, his error led to Celta’s first goal. - Arda Güler (8.2/10)
Provided creativity and energy after coming on, helping Madrid regain control. - Fede Valverde (8.0/10)
Added drive to the midfield and scored a crucial goal in extra time. - Endrick (8.7/10)
Game-changer. Scored twice in extra time, including a thunderous strike, to seal the win. - Jude Bellingham (6.3/10)
Played a supporting role after coming on late in regulation. - Rodrygo (6.0/10)
Struggled to make an impact in his limited time on the pitch.
Key Takeaways
- Endrick’s Breakthrough: The young Brazilian delivered a performance to remember, silencing critics and proving his worth with two crucial goals.
- Tchouaméni’s Dominance: The midfielder was a rock in the middle of the park, earning Player of the Match honors.
- Celta’s Resilience: Despite the loss, Celta Vigo showed tremendous fight, pushing one of Spain’s giants to the brink.
What’s Next?
Real Madrid advance to the Copa del Rey quarter-finals, where they could face arch-rivals Barcelona. Celta Vigo, meanwhile, will turn their focus back to La Liga as they aim to climb the table.
Player of the Match: Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid)
