Federico Valverde scores in injury time and Real Madrid beat Celta de Vigo 2-1 to maintain their fight for the La Liga title.
Posted on March 6, 2026
Federico Valverde’s deflected effort four minutes into stoppage time earned Real Madrid a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Celta Vigo in La Liga, ending a run of two consecutive defeats and keeping them firmly in the title race.
A goal from Aurelien Tchouameni put the visitors ahead in the 11th minute on Friday, but Borja Iglesias equalized in the 25th after Williot Swedberg burst down the left and crossed low.
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Trent Alexander-Arnold was largely at fault for the goal, allowing the Celta striker to win the ball back before cutting inside and assisting with a perfect break.
Real, who lost nine players to injury and suspension, controlled much of the second half without creating clear opportunities.
Vinicius Junior made his team’s first attempt since the first half when he shot low at the goalkeeper from outside the box in the 57th minute.
Substitute Iago Aspas hit the post in the 88th minute as Celta counterattacked before Valverde tried his luck from distance and saw his shot deflect off the defender and past the goalkeeper just wide.
There was even more drama when Real’s celebrations turned to nerves; The teams were awaiting word on whether the referee would be asked to review a possible foul in the lead-up to the goal.
No such intervention occurred, and Real’s relief and Celta’s anguish when the full-time whistle blew seconds after the restart was palpable.
“It hurts because it was right at the moment of death,” said Celta Iglesias forward. “It’s a little frustrating.”
Barcelona leads with 64 points, one ahead of Real, and will face Athletic Bilbao on Saturday.
Celta remains sixth with 40.
