Madrid qualify as group winners after thrashing Celtic

Real Madrid are back to winning ways. After losing their last Champions League game against Leipzig and drawing their last league game against Girona, 'Los Blancos' needed to take all three points to qualify for the last 16 as group winners.

Ancelotti's side dominated a first half in which three penalties were awarded in 33 minutes. Although the Spaniards kept possession and created chances, Celtic did not give up and also created chances to close the gap.

Modric started the match in style. The Croatian scored the opening goal just 6 minutes into the match. Valverde received the ball inside the box and his shot was blocked by Jenz's hand. The first ever referee to officiate Madrid, Stephanie Frappart, awarded a penalty and Modric converted from the spot.

Just 15 minutes later, another penalty was awarded after Rodrygo's shot was blocked by O'riley's hand. The Brazilian stepped up to take the penalty and extended the lead for the home side. 

However, the latter was not to be the last penalty of the first half, as Frappart considered that Mendy had fouled Abada inside the box. But in this case Courtois prevented Juranovic from pulling one back from the penalty spot.

The second half continued in the same vein. Ansesio added another in the 51st minute. The rebound fell to the Spaniard after Carvajal tried to feed Valverde and the winger ended Celtic's hopes with a first-time shot across the face of goal.  Madrid showed no mercy and continued their goal fest. Vinicius scored the fourth after Valverde found him with a lovely cross from the right flank. Just ten minutes later Valverde added another one from the D. with a lovely shot across the face of goal. 

Jota scored the consolation goal in the 84th minute for Celtic with a lovely free kick to the top corner.

 

November 2, 2022