Real Madrid vs Celta Vigo: La Liga Match Details, Start Time, and Team Lineups

In the midst of a thrilling La Liga season, Real Madrid faces Celta Vigo at Santiago Bernabeu in a match that could prove crucial for the reigning champions’ title ambitions. With pressure building following inconsistent performances, Real looks to regain its dominance in Spain’s top-flight league, while the visiting Celta Vigo seeks to capitalize on their recent resilience. The stage is set for Kylian Mbappe to shine, further bolstering his growing legacy within the storied club.

Real Madrid will host Celta Vigo in Spain’s La Liga on Sunday, December 7, at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 9 p.m. local time (20:00 GMT). This matchup comes at a pivotal point in the season for Los Blancos, as they strive to secure their second top-flight victory in five matches to narrow the gap behind league leaders Barcelona.

Despite being heavy favorites, Real Madrid’s recent form has raised eyebrows and intensified scrutiny regarding coach Xabi Alonso’s strategies. Once perceived as champions in waiting, they now find themselves two points adrift of Barcelona, which has added pressure for a win in this matchup against a Celta Vigo side known for its impressive performances away from home.

Celta Vigo enters this match with a mixed record, having recently broken an eight-match unbeaten streak with a few disappointing results. Nevertheless, the team remains competitive in the mid-table, and their ability to disrupt Real Madrid’s game could create potential for an upset. All eyes will be on Kylian Mbappe, who continues to cement his name in club history and draws comparisons to legends like Cristiano Ronaldo.

Coach Xabi Alonso has expressed confidence in Mbappe’s potential, highlighting his ambition and effect on the team’s morale. With 55 goals in 2025, Mbappe is on the cusp of breaking Ronaldo’s record of 59 goals in a calendar year for Real Madrid. The French forward’s current scoring form includes 16 goals in 15 league matches and nine in five Champions League appearances, making him a pivotal figure as Real prepares to face Manchester City in the Champions League.

Real Madrid’s form has fluctuated this season, having won 13 of their first 14 matches before experiencing a dip that has resulted in only two wins in their last six outings. Their previous encounter against Athletic Bilbao, a commanding 3-0 victory, showcased their potential as they look to maintain this momentum going into Sunday’s clash.

Celta Vigo’s recent slump has seen them lose three of their last four matches. Despite this, they previously enjoyed a solid start to the season and are eager to recapture that form. The last time these two sides met, Real Madrid emerged with a 3-2 victory at home last May, highlighting their recent dominance over Celta Vigo, winning an astonishing 16 of the last 19 encounters.

In terms of player availability, Real Madrid will be without key talents Dani Carvajal, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Ferland Mendy due to injury, creating opportunities for emerging players to step up. Celta Vigo’s talisman, Borja Iglesias, will lead their charge, hoping to exploit Real’s defensive gaps.

As the anticipation builds, this La Liga encounter stands as a significant moment for both clubs, with implications that extend far beyond the final score. Fans will be eager to witness whether Real Madrid can harness their historical prowess and if Celta Vigo can mount a spirited challenge against one of football’s giants. #SportsNews #MiddleEastNews