Real Madrid's two draws last week have left them four points back of the league leaders, and on the verge of dropping out of the title race. Even if they were to defeat Celta Vigo on Sunday, a win or draw by Atlético Madrid would slam the door on their chances of reclaiming the league title.
Celta Vigo vs. Real Madrid: Preview, TV schedule and how to watch online
Real Madrid’s title hopes took a big blow next week, and now they’ll need a win and help to stay alive going into the season’s final day.
Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno
Carlo Ancelotti knows the difficult task ahead of his team, and while you'd expect them to give it a go against Celta, no one could really blame them if they are focused on the upcoming Champions League final at this point. Madrid's attack is beat-up with Ronaldo and Ángel di María both sidelined. There's also defensive problems with Pepe out, and Raphaël Varana struggling with a knee problem.
Celta Vigo are safe, ten points clear of the drop zone, and will be playing for pride and a top-ten finish.
Celta Vigo injuries and suspensions
Out: Hugo Mallo (unspecified).
Real Madrid injuries and suspensions
Out: Cristiano Ronaldo (muscle), Pepe (calf), Ángel di Maria (knee), Jesé (knee). In Doubt: Raphaël Varane (knee).
Not having Ronaldo and Pepe is a blow for Madrid, but trying to get them healthy for the Champions League final will be the team’s priority. Isco will likely start in Ronaldo’s place, while Raphaël Varane could replace Pepe if his knee is well enough.
Projected lineups
Celta Vigo: Sergio Álvarez, Jon Aurtenetxe, Andreu Fontás, Iñigo López, Jonathan Castro, Borja Oubiña, Michael Krohn-Dehli, Augusto Fernández, Nolito, Mario Bermejo, Fabián Orellana.
Real Marid: Iker Casillas, Marcelo, Sergio Ramos, Raphaël Varane, Dani Carvajal, Xabi Alonso, Luka Modrić, Asier Illarramendi, Gareth Bale, Isco, Karim Benzema.
Match Date/Time: 7 p.m. local, 1 p.m. ET
Venue: Estadio de Balaídos, Vigo, Spain
TV: beIN Sports USA (U.S. - English), beIN Sports en Español (U.S. - Spanish), Sky Sports 1 (U.K.), beIn Sports Canada (Canada), Canal+ Liga (Spain).
Online: beIN Sports Play (U.S.), Sky Go (U.K.), beIN Sports Play (Canada), Gol Stadium (Spain).
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