Real Madrid will indeed compete in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals. Facing Celta Vigo this Thursday in the Round of 16, Carlo Ancelotti’s side endured a tough match but relied on young Endrick to secure a 5-2 victory in added time.
Real Madrid just pulled off another critical game. Following their defeat to the Catalans in the 2025 Spanish Super Cup last Sunday, the Madrid team enjoyed a relatively calm evening with goals from Kylian Mbappé (37′) and Vinícius Júnior (48′). However, a few late-game changes brought drama. Camavinga, subbed on in the 70th minute, made a costly error that led to Celta Vigo’s goal in the 83rd minute. In the dying moments of added time, Raúl Asensio unfortunately conceded a penalty. Marcos Alonso, formerly of Chelsea, calmly converted to equalise for Celta.
In extra time, Real Madrid regained control. At the 108th minute, young Endrick unleashed a powerful shot to make it 3-2. Shortly after, Federico Valverde added another stunner for 4-2 (112′). In the final seconds of extra time, Endrick completed his brace (119′) to seal a dramatic qualification. Here are the player ratings following this hard-fought win.
Andriy Lunin (6)
A strong performance from the Ukrainian goalkeeper. While not heavily tested in the first half, Lunin made some crucial saves in the second. Unfortunately, he could do little to stop Camavinga’s unforced error that led to Vigo’s 83rd-minute goal. Similarly, he was helpless against the penalty conceded by Asensio in added time.
Antonio Rüdiger (6.6)
The German rock delivered a solid game. As combative as ever, Rüdiger thwarted numerous threats early on. He also contributed in the attacking build-up when Real pushed high. However, he was unable to prevent his defensive partners’ late errors that led to the equaliser.
Raúl Asensio (5.5)
Another standout performance from the young Spanish talent. Starting in Tchouaméni’s usual position, Raúl Asensio showed why he is a key prospect. Despite his youth, the central defender exuded confidence, dominating his duels in the first half. Unfortunately, a costly mistake in the 94th minute handed Celta Vigo the equalising penalty.
Lucas Vázquez (6)
After a poor showing against Barcelona in the Super Cup, the Spanish right-back redeemed himself with a solid display. Against a relatively weaker opponent, Vázquez showcased his attacking prowess while maintaining defensive balance. However, like the rest of the team, he faded late on. With Trent Alexander-Arnold possibly replacing him next season, Vázquez, at 33, has room for improvement.
Fran García (6.5)
Standing in for Ferland Mendy, the young left-back performed well. As always, Fran García carried the ball forward effectively and added width to the attack.
Aurélien Tchouaméni (6)
Booed during the pre-match lineup announcements, the French midfielder started nervously, misplacing key passes. However, his performance improved as the game progressed. By the 30th minute, he was making crucial interceptions and denied Vigo an equaliser with a decisive intervention in the 55th minute. His second half was significantly better.
Dani Ceballos (6)
A decent outing for Ceballos. Operating in midfield, he attempted to control the game with incisive passes. While not particularly threatening offensively, he contributed to stifling the opposition until he was replaced by Eduardo Camavinga (unrated) in the 69th minute.
Luka Modrić (7)
The veteran remains indispensable. As Ivan Rakitić recently suggested, Florentino Pérez should not hesitate to renew his contract. Modrić’s ball retention and game management were exemplary, and he contributed significantly throughout the match.
Brahim Díaz (7.5)
What a game! The lively Brahim Díaz tormented Celta Vigo’s defence with his speed and agility. He provided a delightful assist for Vinícius Júnior’s goal and created further chances that went unconverted. Replaced by Arda Güler (unrated) in the 69th minute, Brahim can be proud of his performance.
Vinícius Júnior (7)
Expected to deliver, the Brazilian star came alive in the second half, scoring in the 48th minute. Although he missed some clear chances later, his contributions proved vital ahead of the midweek Champions League clash with RB Salzburg.
Kylian Mbappé (7.5)
The standout Madrid player of 2025 so far, Mbappé once again dazzled. Scoring a stunning goal in the 37th minute, he eased the pressure on his team. His pace and finishing continue to set him apart.
Endrick (9)
Subbed on in the 79th minute, Endrick stole the show with a brace that secured Real’s qualification. The former Palmeiras starlet was unstoppable, scoring two classic striker’s goals. He’s our Man of the Match.
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