Real Madrid host Celta de Vigo in what promises to be an exciting clash in La Liga on Saturday. Zinedine Zidane’s squad has come under heavy fire after their 1-0 defeat against city rivals Atletico Madrid. Trailing Barcelona by 12 points, Real Madrid are effectively out of the title race following their loss in the Madrid derby.
However, Zinedine Zidane cannot afford to take his eyes off La Liga as they run the risk of slipping further down the league table. Celta Vigo will prove to be tough opposition at the Bernabeu as Eduardo Berizzo has the talent in his squad to capitalize on their opposition’s injury concerns. Currently sitting 6th in the table, Celta Vigo will look for an important away win in order to secure a place in Europe at the end of the season.
Real Madrid
While Gareth Bale and Marcelo are available for selection against Celta Vigo, midfielder Toni Kroos is ruled out of the starting lineup after coming down with the flu. Meanwhile, Sergio Ramos’s return from suspension, along with Dani Carvajal, will boost the defence as Madrid look to avoid any more slip ups in La Liga.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Navas (GK); Ramos, Carvajal, Varane, Danilo; Casemiro, Kovacic; Isco, Bale, James; Ronaldo
Celta de Vigo
Celta de Vigo do not have any fresh injury concerns ahead of their away fixture at the Santiago Bernabeu. Andreu Fontas remains injured as Berizzo is expected to field Gustavo Carbral and Sergi Gomez at the heart of the defence.
Probable Lineup (4-5-1): Alvarez (GK); Cabral, Gomez, Mallo, Castro; Diaz, Wass, Orellana, Nolito, Aspas; Guidetti
Key Facts:
- Celta Vigo and Real Madrid have the same win percentage in away games (La Liga) this season.
- Real Madrid have scored the most goals at home in the league this season.
- Celta Vigo have only won one of their last five fixtures against Real Madrid.
- Real Madrid have only won three of their last five fixtures in all competitions.
- Celta Vigo have only won four of their last ten fixtures in all competitions.
Prediction
Real Madrid 3-2 Celta Vigo
Real Madrid are likely to struggle in the absence of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric in the midfield. A shaky defence would further put pressure on the home team. However, the likes of Ronaldo and Bale will be expected to come out on top against Celta Vigo at Santiago Bernabeu.
Betting Odds (bet365)
Real Madrid – 3/10
Draw – 5
Celta Vigo – 8
