In an intense and thrilling Copa del Rey match, Real Madrid overcame Celta de Vigo 5-2 in a dramatic encounter on January 16, 2025. The match went into extra time after a late equalizer from Celta, but the Merengues proved their dominance and sealed the victory with a late surge.
The game started with Real Madrid controlling possession, but it was Celta who created the first real chance. Carl Starfelt’s header hit the crossbar in the fifth minute, signaling that the match would not be a one-sided affair. However, Real Madrid quickly regained their composure and took the lead in the 37th minute, with Kylian Mbappé scoring a brilliant counter-attack goal after a strong run.
The first half saw Real Madrid dominate possession, but they struggled to break down a stubborn Celta defense, which had no interest in pressing forward. In the 48th minute, Vinícius Júnior doubled the advantage for Madrid with a controversial goal that was reviewed by the VAR before being approved.
Celta responded in the second half, with Jonathan Bamba pulling one back in the 82nd minute following a defensive error from Eduardo Camavinga. The visitors gained momentum, and in the dying moments of regulation time, Marcos Alonso converted a penalty to bring the score level at 2-2, sending the game into extra time.
The extra period saw Real Madrid step up their game, and Endrick scored a stunning brace in the 107th and 119th minutes to secure the win. The young Brazilian’s double was complemented by a powerful strike from Fede Valverde in the 112th minute, as Madrid showed their quality and sealed a 5-2 victory.
Despite some nervy moments, including a handball by Antonio Rüdiger that was reviewed and overturned by VAR, Real Madrid’s persistence and quality in attack were too much for Celta to handle. Carlo Ancelotti’s side now advances to the Copa del Rey quarterfinals, where they will look to continue their quest for domestic silverware.
Final Score: Real Madrid 5-2 Celta de Vigo (After Extra Time).
