Real Madrid Snatch Late Victory Over Celta Vigo

Despite taking the lead early, Real Madrid were pegged back by a determined Celta Vigo side before clinching a dramatic late victory at the Abanca-Balaídos. The visitors dominated possession (63% to 37%) and outshot their opponents 14 to 8, but struggled to create high-quality chances, with an expected goals figure of just 0.86 compared to Celta's 1.04.

Aurélien Tchouaméni's early strike gave Real the advantage, but Borja Iglesias leveled the scores shortly after, taking advantage of a counter-attack and good work from Swedberg to slot home. Celta's defensive shape and willingness to press high up the pitch nullified Real's attacking threat for much of the game, with the Spanish champions failing to register a single shot on target in the second half until the 90th minute.

However, Federico Valverde's two late goals in the final minutes of normal time secured all three points for Carlo Ancelotti's side. The Uruguayan's composure and clinical finishing proved to be the decisive factor, with Celta unable to respond despite enjoying a numerical advantage after Tchouaméni's late yellow card.

This victory keeps Real Madrid firmly in the title race, but Ancelotti will be concerned by his team's inability to break down a well-organized Celta side for long periods. Conversely, Eduardo Coudet's men will be left to rue their failure to capitalize on their solid defensive display, ultimately undone by Real's quality in the closing stages.