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After qualifying with difficulty against RB Leipzig, Real Madrid had to maintain its lead over FC Barcelona and Girona in the Championship, before knowing its opponent in the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Deprived of Jude Bellingham after his controversial red card last week, Carlo Ancelotti opted for a mid four with Camavinga, Modric, Kroos and Brahim Díaz, behind Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo.
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Faced with a Celta de Vigo team which is often used to making hold-ups against the Liga leaders, Camavinga was the first to prove dangerous with a powerful header deflected by Guaita (7th). The Merengues then dominated most of the start of the match and were rewarded by the opener from Vinicius Jr, who, despite a double save from Guaita, was able to put the ball in the back (1-0, 21st ). A perfect start.
Real Madrid ensures without Jude Bellingham
But Real Madrid then lacked efficiency in front of goal, despite its 8 shots on target in the first period and could even have been punished by Aspas, with his left foot, but Lunin was vigilant (38th). The pace then dropped a little after the break and Celta couldn’t seem dangerous. But the corners were fatal for the Galicia team, since Rudiger was able to make the break with a powerful header on the crossbar, deflected by poor Guaita in his goal (2-0, 79th).
At the end of the game, the Merengues secured the victory thanks to a beautiful cross from Vini Jr. who found the unfortunate foot of Dominguez, for a second goal against his side (3-0, 88th). And to top it all off, Arda Güler even scored his first goal in his new colors (4-0, 90th+4). Without trembling, Carlo Ancelotti’s men secured the essentials before going to Osasuna and remain seven points ahead of Girona, eight over FC Barcelona. Before a trip to Seville, Celta de Vigo is in danger and remains only two points ahead of the first relegation Cádiz.
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Manu Tournoux is a passionate and knowledgeable football enthusiast with a special focus on French football. Born and raised in France, Manu discovered his love for the beautiful game at a young age and developed a deep understanding of the ins and outs of "Le Championnat." His French roots and extensive experience in football journalism have made him an invaluable asset to the French Football Weekly team. As an author for the website, Manu's expertise includes not only in-depth analysis of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matches but also insightful profiles of up-and-coming talents, detailed transfer news, and engaging coverage of the French national team. His captivating writing style and undeniable passion for the game have earned him a loyal following among our readers. When he's not crafting engaging articles for French Football Weekly, Manu enjoys attending live matches whenever he can, exploring football culture in various French cities, and engaging in spirited debates with fellow fans. Feel free to follow Manu on Twitter and interact with him as he shares his expert opinions, insights, and love for French football.