Real Madrid vs Celta Vigo Copa Del Rey: A Crucial Clash at the Bernabeu
The Copa Del Rey Round of 16 brings an exciting fixture as Real Madrid vs Celta Vigo takes center stage on 16th January 2025 at the Santiago Bernabeu. After a disappointing 5-2 loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final, Real Madrid will be eager to redeem themselves and keep their Copa Del Rey dreams alive. Celta Vigo, on the other hand, will look to spring a surprise and continue their quest for a historic cup triumph.
Real Madrid’s Recent Form and Team News
Real Madrid enters this match on the back of a mixed run of form. While they secured a dominant 5-0 win over Deportivo Minera in the Copa Del Rey third round, their recent 5-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Super Cup final has raised questions about their defensive stability. Carlo Ancelotti’s side has been formidable at home, winning their last five competitive matches at the Bernabeu with a combined scoreline of 16-2.
In terms of team news, Real Madrid will be without key defenders Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal due to long-term injuries. David Alaba is expected to return to the squad after recovering from a lengthy absence, while Raul Asencio could feature in central defense alongside Antonio Rudiger. Kylian Mbappe, who has been in fine form with 10 goals this season, will lead the attack alongside Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham.
Celta Vigo’s Road to the Round of 16
Celta Vigo has navigated their way to the Copa Del Rey Round of 16 with impressive victories over Racing Santander, Salamanca UDS, and UD San Pedro. However, their recent league form has been inconsistent, with a 2-1 loss to Rayo Vallecano leaving them 12th in La Liga. Celta’s last victory over Real Madrid came in January 2017, and they will need to produce a special performance to overcome the Spanish giants.
The visitors will be without captain Iago Aspas due to a muscle injury, while Marcos Alonso and Alfon Gonzalez are also sidelined. Despite these setbacks, Celta’s attacking duo of Williot Swedberg and Jonathan Bamba could pose a threat to Real Madrid’s defense.
Real Madrid vs Celta Vigo: Head-to-Head and Prediction
Real Madrid has dominated recent encounters with Celta Vigo, winning their last nine matches across all competitions. Their last meeting in October 2024 saw Los Blancos secure a 2-1 victory at Balaidos, with Vinicius Junior scoring the decisive goal.
Given Real Madrid’s strong home record and Celta’s injury concerns, the hosts are favorites to progress to the quarter-finals. However, Celta’s resilience in cup competitions cannot be underestimated, as they demonstrated last season with a 3-1 away win over Valencia in the same stage.
Prediction: Real Madrid 3-1 Celta Vigo
The Real Madrid vs Celta Vigo Copa Del Rey clash promises to be an intriguing encounter. With Real Madrid aiming to bounce back from their Super Cup disappointment and Celta Vigo seeking to make history, fans can expect an entertaining match at the Santiago Bernabeu. Will Los Blancos continue their dominance, or can Celta pull off a shock result? Tune in on 16th January 2025 to find out!
