⚽ Mbappé and Güler Shine as Real Madrid Edge Celta Vigo 3-2, Keeping La Liga Title Hopes Alive ⚽

Madrid, May 4, 2025 — In a pulsating encounter at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid emerged victorious with a 3-2 win over Celta Vigo, thanks to stellar performances from Kylian Mbappé and Arda Güler. This crucial victory ensures that Los Blancos remain just four points behind league leaders Barcelona, setting the stage for a potentially decisive El Clásico next weekend.

First-Half Dominance

Real Madrid entered the match under pressure, knowing that only a win would suffice to keep their title aspirations alive. The team responded with intensity and flair. In the 33rd minute, Arda Güler opened the scoring with a sublime left-footed strike, capitalizing on a well-executed corner routine.Source: Diario AS+4SI+4Reuters+4

Just five minutes later, Mbappé doubled the lead. Jude Bellingham initiated a swift counter-attack, finding Mbappé, who unleashed a powerful shot from distance, leaving Celta's goalkeeper Vicente Guaita with no chance. Source: Diario AS+11Reuters+11SI+11SI

Second-Half Surge and Scare

The second half began with Real Madrid maintaining their attacking momentum. In the 50th minute, Güler and Mbappé combined brilliantly, with Güler delivering a precise through ball that Mbappé converted, making it 3-0.Source: SI

However, complacency crept in, and Celta Vigo seized the opportunity. In the 69th minute, Javi Rodríguez capitalized on a defensive lapse to pull one back. Seven minutes later, Iago Aspas, coming off the bench, assisted Williot Swedberg, who narrowed the deficit to 3-2.Source: Reuters+2ESPN.com+2El País+2El País+4Diario AS+4ESPN.com+4

Defensive Resilience and Courtois' Heroics

Real Madrid's defense, already stretched due to injuries to key players like Dani Carvajal and Éder Militão, faced intense pressure in the closing stages. Thibaut Courtois emerged as the savior, making crucial saves to deny Celta an equalizer, including a decisive stop against Aspas.

Managerial Insights

Post-match, Carlo Ancelotti praised his team's performance but acknowledged the need for sustained focus. He highlighted Güler's development, stating, "It's clear that the Güler of September is not the one of today." Source: Managing Madrid+1Daily Sabah+1

Looking Ahead

With this victory, Real Madrid maintains momentum in the title race. Mbappé's brace brings his La Liga goal tally to 24, just one behind Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski, intensifying the competition for the Pichichi Trophy. Source: Goal.com+4talkSPORT+4Reuters+4

The upcoming El Clásico against Barcelona looms large. A win would narrow the gap to a single point, reigniting hopes for a league triumph. As the season approaches its climax, Real Madrid's blend of youthful exuberance and experienced leadership could prove decisive.