The La Liga title race is heating up, and the matchup between Real Madrid vs Celta Vigo is poised to play a crucial part. With just a handful of games left this season, every point matters. Real Madrid are under pressure to keep pace with league leaders Barcelona, while Celta Vigo aim to disrupt their ambitions and secure a solid finish in the standings.

Why Real Madrid vs Celta Vigo Matters

This fixture has serious implications for both teams. Real Madrid must win to keep their La Liga hopes alive. Celta Vigo, sitting comfortably in mid-table, look to play spoiler and push for a higher finish. The Santiago Bernabéu atmosphere will be intense as home fans hope to see their team bounce back after tough losses in both the Champions League and Copa del Rey.

Real Madrid Squad News and Predicted Lineup

The build-up to this game has been dominated by injuries for the hosts. Key defenders Antonio Rüdiger, Ferland Mendy, and David Alaba are sidelined, and Rodrygo misses out due to illness. This forces coach Carlo Ancelotti to improvise at the back. Midfield dynamism will be vital as Real turn to stalwarts like Fede Valverde and Luka Modrić, while the prolific Kylian Mbappé leads the line after returning from injury. For the detailed predicted XI, read this in-depth lineup breakdown from Sports Illustrated.

Real Madrid Squad Highlights:

• Goalkeepers: Courtois, Lunin, Sergio Mestre
• Defenders: Lucas Vázquez, Vallejo, Fran García, Asencio
• Midfielders: Jude Bellingham, Valverde, Modrić, Tchouaméni, Ceballos
• Attackers: Vinícius Júnior, Mbappé, Endrick, Brahim

For the official squad list and full team news, check Managing Madrid’s latest update.

Celta Vigo’s Approach and Players to Watch

Celta Vigo arrive at the Bernabéu with belief. Their squad features creative playmakers and seasoned defenders who have already troubled big teams this season. Expect them to be compact in defense and swift on the counterattack. The starting XI includes goalkeeper Vicente Guaita and attacking options like Alfon and Iglesias, who will try to capitalize on Real Madrid’s patched-up backline.

Kickoff Details and How to Watch

• Date: May 4, 2025
• Time: 14:00 CET / 08:00 EST
• Venue: Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid, Spain
• TV: Movistar La Liga, ABC
• Streaming: ESPN+

For full coverage and live commentaries as the action unfolds, follow Al Jazeera's live blog.

What to Expect: Key Battles and Prediction

History favors Real Madrid in this matchup as they've secured ten consecutive wins against Celta Vigo. Still, with several major absentees, the home side will need standout performances from Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Bellingham. Celta Vigo will look to exploit any weaknesses, especially in Madrid’s defense.

This promises to be a closely contested fixture with high stakes. A win is essential for Real Madrid to stay in the title hunt. Celta Vigo, meanwhile, seek an upset that could define their season. The stage is set for a dramatic La Liga encounter.

Conclusion

Real Madrid vs Celta Vigo is more than just another La Liga game—it's a potential turning point as the finish line approaches. Don't miss the action, crucial team news, and full coverage. Will Madrid’s stars shine, or can Celta Vigo cause one of the season’s biggest shocks?