Real Madrid vs. Celta Vigo: Player Ratings, Endrick Steals the Show!

Real Madrid has secured their spot in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals after a thrilling 5-2 victory over Celta Vigo. In a dramatic round of 16 clash on Thursday, Carlo Ancelotti’s men struggled at times but ultimately relied on the brilliance of young sensation Endrick, whose extra-time heroics sealed the win.

Coming off a stinging defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup, Real Madrid entered the match under significant pressure. However, the team seemed determined to turn the page, and Kylian Mbappé set the tone with a sensational goal in the 37th minute, giving Los Blancos a deserved lead. Vinícius Júnior doubled the advantage shortly after halftime, seemingly putting Madrid on course for a comfortable victory.

Yet, the game took an unexpected turn in the closing stages. A lapse in concentration from Eduardo Camavinga, who came on as a substitute in the 70th minute, allowed Celta Vigo to pull one back in the 83rd minute. Just when it seemed Madrid had weathered the storm, Raúl Asensio committed a costly foul in injury time, resulting in a penalty that Marcos Alonso coolly converted to level the score.

Extra-Time Drama: Endrick’s Moment to Shine

With the match tied 2-2 at the end of regular time, extra time beckoned, and Real Madrid needed a hero. That hero was Endrick. Introduced in the 79th minute, the young Brazilian immediately brought energy to the team. In the 108th minute, he unleashed a thunderous strike to make it 3-2, sending the Santiago Bernabéu into a frenzy.

Minutes later, Federico Valverde added to the lead with a stunning effort in the 112th minute, showcasing his trademark long-range precision. Endrick wasn’t done yet. In the dying moments of extra time, the 18-year-old secured his brace with a clinical finish in the 119th minute, cementing Madrid’s victory and his status as the game’s standout performer.

Player Ratings

Andriy Lunin (6)
The Ukrainian goalkeeper had a solid game overall. Although he wasn’t tested much in the first half, he made critical saves in the second. Unfortunately, he was left helpless during Celta Vigo’s late equalizer, as both the defensive error and the penalty were beyond his control.

Antonio Rüdiger (6.6)
A rock at the back for most of the game, Rüdiger’s physical presence disrupted Celta Vigo’s attacks. Despite his strong performance, he couldn’t prevent the defensive lapses late in the match.

Raúl Asensio (5.5)
The young defender impressed for much of the game, winning key duels and showing maturity beyond his years. However, his late foul that led to the penalty overshadowed an otherwise commendable display.

Lucas Vázquez (6)
After a poor outing against Barcelona, Vázquez redeemed himself with an improved performance. He was active in attack and reliable defensively but faded toward the end.

Fran García (6.5)
Replacing Ferland Mendy, the young left-back delivered a strong showing. His overlapping runs provided width, and he was defensively sound.

Aurélien Tchouaméni (6)
The French midfielder had a shaky start, struggling with misplaced passes early on. However, he grew into the game, making vital interceptions in the second half.

Dani Ceballos (6)
A solid performance in midfield, Ceballos was instrumental in maintaining possession and linking play. He was substituted in the 69th minute after a decent shift.

Luka Modrić (7)
The Croatian maestro remains as reliable as ever. Modrić controlled the tempo of the game with his passing and vision, proving his enduring value to the team.

Brahim Díaz (7.5)
The dynamic forward was a constant threat, tormenting Celta Vigo’s defense with his pace and creativity. He provided the assist for Vinícius’s goal and was influential throughout.

Vinícius Júnior (7)
Vinícius had a quiet first half but came alive after the break. His goal early in the second half showcased his instinct and precision, although he missed a few other opportunities.

Kylian Mbappé (7.5)
Madrid’s talisman once again rose to the occasion. His brilliant individual goal in the first half set the tone, and his overall influence on the game was undeniable.

Endrick (9)
The star of the night. Coming off the bench, the Brazilian wonderkid changed the game with two clutch goals in extra time. His composure, movement, and clinical finishing were a joy to watch. At just 18 years old, Endrick is proving he belongs on the big stage.

Looking Ahead

This hard-fought win not only keeps Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey hopes alive but also highlights the depth of talent in the squad. With Endrick stepping up and veterans like Modrić and Mbappé leading the way, Madrid fans have plenty to be excited about as they prepare for their Champions League clash against RB Salzburg.