Real Madrid edged past Celta Vigo in a pulsating 3-2 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu, with Kylian Mbappé delivering a masterclass to keep Los Blancos within striking distance of La Liga leaders Barcelona. The French superstar netted twice, showcasing his lethal finishing and proving why he remains Madrid’s most decisive player in their title chase.
Mbappé’s Magic Sparks Madrid’s Charge
Carlo Ancelotti’s men entered the match knowing that anything less than a win would severely dent their championship aspirations. With Barcelona securing a comeback victory against Valladolid the previous day, Madrid needed a response—and Mbappé delivered.
The breakthrough came in the 33rd minute when Arda Güler curled a stunning effort into the top-left corner after a well-worked short corner routine. Just six minutes later, Mbappé doubled Madrid’s lead, collecting a precise pass from Jude Bellingham before driving forward and rifling a shot past Vicente Guaita.
The French forward wasn’t done yet. Three minutes into the second half, he latched onto another defense-splitting ball from Güler, calmly slotting home his second of the night. With that goal, Mbappé took his La Liga tally to 24 goals in 30 matches, putting him within touching distance of Cristiano Ronaldo’s debut-season record of 26 goals for Madrid.
Celta Vigo’s Late Fightback
Despite Madrid’s dominance, Celta Vigo refused to go down without a fight. Javi Rodríguez pulled one back in the 69th minute, finishing from close range after Hugo Sotelo’s flick was cleared off the line. The visitors then set up a nervy finale when substitute Williot Swedberg finished off a slick passing move to make it 3-2 in the 76th minute.
Madrid had to dig deep, with Thibaut Courtois making a crucial save to deny Pablo Durán’s late effort. The final whistle confirmed a vital three points for Los Blancos, keeping them four points behind Barcelona with four matches remaining.
Mbappé Closing in on Madrid History
Mbappé’s brace not only secured Madrid’s victory but also brought him closer to an elite milestone. His 36 goals across all competitions put him just one shy of Iván Zamorano’s record of 37 goals in a debut season for Madrid. With El Clásico looming next week, the Frenchman has the perfect stage to etch his name into Madrid’s history books.
Looking Ahead
Madrid’s defensive frailties remain a concern, with injuries to Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba, and Eduardo Camavinga leaving Ancelotti with limited options at the back. However, with Mbappé in red-hot form, Madrid will fancy their chances of pushing Barcelona all the way in the title race.
