Kylian Mbappe showed why he's still one of the deadliest names in football, scoring twice to help Real Madrid edge out a spirited Celta Vigo side 3-2 in a nerve-racking La Liga showdown at the Santiago Bernabéu.

With Barcelona barely surviving a scare of their own against Valladolid the night before, Madrid came into Sunday’s clash knowing anything less than a win would dent their fading title hopes. And for a moment, it looked like a breeze — Mbappe struck twice, Madrid led 3-0, and fans were already dreaming of next week’s El Clásico.

But football loves drama.

Celta Vigo, sitting seventh and hungry for European qualification, weren’t just there to make up the numbers. They roared back with two second-half goals, pushing Real to the brink and forcing a nail-biting finish under the Bernabéu lights.

“We thought the job was done,” admitted coach Carlo Ancelotti. “But we’re missing six defenders, and sometimes we suffer in situations we should control. Still, it’s a good win.”

Madrid’s defensive frailty has been exposed in recent weeks. Knocked out of the Champions League, and still licking wounds from their Copa del Rey final defeat to Barcelona, La Liga is now the last trophy on offer — and slipping up isn’t an option.

Midfielder Fede Valverde didn’t mince words. “We had a solid first half, but we lost our focus. It’s been happening too often. We gave them space, and they punished us.”

But amid the chaos, young Turkish talent Arda Güler lit up the pitch. Starting in place of an ill Rodrygo, the 20-year-old didn’t waste the moment — pulling strings in midfield and almost scoring with a bold overhead kick that showed he’s more than just a backup.

At the other end, Thibaut Courtois had to stay alert as Celta — led by ex-Barcelona man Marcos Alonso — kept testing Madrid’s weakened backline. Alonso came close twice, but Madrid held firm just long enough.

Aurelien Tchouaméni had a golden chance to extend the lead but headed over. In the end, Mbappe’s brace proved just enough.

With El Clásico around the corner and a four-point gap still separating Madrid from top-spot Barça, next weekend’s showdown could define the season.

“We’re still in it,” Valverde added. “But we can’t afford another second-half like this one.”


By WafricNews Desk.