Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid — May 2, 2025
Kylian Mbappé scored twice as Real Madrid edged Celta Vigo 3–2 in a thrilling La Liga encounter, keeping their title hopes alive ahead of a crucial El Clasico showdown with leaders Barcelona next weekend.
After Barcelona’s comeback win over Valladolid on Saturday, the pressure was on Carlo Ancelotti’s side to respond—and respond they did, though not without late drama. Goals from Arda Güler and Mbappé (2) put Madrid 3–0 ahead, but a spirited second-half comeback from Celta left Los Blancos clinging to the result in the dying moments.
“We fell apart… it’s something we’ve experienced before and can’t let happen,” said Real midfielder Fede Valverde. “Now everything depends on El Clasico—it’s the game of the year for us.”
Madrid, plagued by defensive injuries and still reeling from recent Champions League and Copa del Rey exits, were powered early by 20-year-old playmaker Güler. The Turkish talent opened the scoring in the 33rd minute with a composed finish before assisting Mbappé’s second of the night.
The French striker, now on 24 league goals, trails only Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski in the scoring charts. His sharp finishing provided Madrid’s cushion—but not comfort.
Javier Rodriguez and Williot Swedberg struck late for Celta, setting up a tense finale. Iago Aspas’ creativity off the bench nearly forced an equalizer, and Courtois narrowly avoided calamity with a late fumble.
The win ensures Madrid remain four points behind Barça with one week to go until their season-defining clash.
Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid — May 2, 2025
Kylian Mbappé scored twice as Real Madrid edged Celta Vigo 3–2 in a thrilling La Liga encounter, keeping their title hopes alive ahead of a crucial El Clasico showdown with leaders Barcelona next weekend.
After Barcelona’s comeback win over Valladolid on Saturday, the pressure was on Carlo Ancelotti’s side to respond—and respond they did, though not without late drama. Goals from Arda Güler and Mbappé (2) put Madrid 3–0 ahead, but a spirited second-half comeback from Celta left Los Blancos clinging to the result in the dying moments.
“We fell apart… it’s something we’ve experienced before and can’t let happen,” said Real midfielder Fede Valverde. “Now everything depends on El Clasico—it’s the game of the year for us.”
Madrid, plagued by defensive injuries and still reeling from recent Champions League and Copa del Rey exits, were powered early by 20-year-old playmaker Güler. The Turkish talent opened the scoring in the 33rd minute with a composed finish before assisting Mbappé’s second of the night.
The French striker, now on 24 league goals, trails only Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski in the scoring charts. His sharp finishing provided Madrid’s cushion—but not comfort.
Javier Rodriguez and Williot Swedberg struck late for Celta, setting up a tense finale. Iago Aspas’ creativity off the bench nearly forced an equalizer, and Courtois narrowly avoided calamity with a late fumble.
The win ensures Madrid remain four points behind Barça with one week to go until their season-defining clash.
