Real Madrid extend unbeaten run with win over Celta Vigo

Real Madrid continued their La Liga title defence with a 2-1 win over Celta Vigo on Saturday night at the Balaidos Stadium.

The hosts were made to rue their missed chances when France captain Kylian Mbappe scored a sensational long-range strike into the top corner after 20 minutes.

Swedish midfielder Williot Swedberg, who had missed two huge chances in the first half, made amends by equalising for the hosts six minutes after the restart.

However, Madrid stole the winner in the 66th minute through Vinicius Jr, who calmly slotted the ball past Celta goalkeeper Vicente Guaita after being set up by Luka Modric.

Victory ensured Real Madrid drew level on 17 points with league leaders Barcelona, who are -312.5 favourites to beat Sevilla (+800) on Sunday with online bookmakers.

The win also means that the Blancos and crosstown rivals Atletico Madrid are the only unbeaten sides in La Liga.

Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti was full of praise for Modric, who was an impact substitute as he became the oldest player in the history of the Spanish club — at 39 years and 40 days.

“Luka Modric is fantastic,” Ancelotti said.

“His pass was fantastic. He saved us. He always helps us, no matter if he starts or not. He’s unbelievable. A fantastic player.

“Real Madrid have been so lucky to have Luka Modric. All of us are honoured to work with him. He’s fantastic in every aspect.

“Modric entered the pitch in a difficult moment. He helped us and controlled the game.”

Madrid will continue their Champions League defence with a rematch against last season’s finalists Borussia Dortmund, and top sports betting sites are paying -227.27 for the holders to beat the Bundesliga side (+500) on Tuesday night in Spain.

Meanwhile, Bovada are favouring Celta Vigo at +139 to bounce back away to Leganes (+219) next Sunday in La Liga.

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