Real Madrid’s journey from a humbling defeat in the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona to a spectacular Copa del Rey Round of 16 victory over Celta Vigo has been nothing short of dramatic. Despite identical scorelines in both matches, the narratives were vastly different.
After the Super Cup loss, Real Madrid faced immense pressure to deliver. Playing at the Santiago Bernabéu, Kylian Mbappé put the hosts ahead in the first half, with Vinícius Júnior doubling the lead shortly after halftime. Up 2-0 until the 82nd minute, Real seemed set for a comfortable win. However, Jonathan Bamba’s goal and Marcos Alonso’s injury-time penalty dragged the match into extra time.
In the additional 30 minutes, Real Madrid reclaimed control. Endrick, the rising Brazilian star, struck brilliantly in the 108th minute and added another with a stunning backheel finish before the final whistle. Fede Valverde’s long-range screamer further cemented the 5-2 victory. This performance placed Endrick among an elite group of Real Madrid players who scored twice in extra time, including legends like Cristiano Ronaldo.
Real coach Carlo Ancelotti lauded the team’s resilience, stating, “The way we responded in extra time was fantastic.” He also praised Endrick’s technical brilliance, highlighting his immense potential.
The quarterfinal draw, set for January 20, will feature Real Madrid alongside Barcelona, Atlético Madrid, Valencia, Leganés, and Getafe, promising more thrilling encounters as the competition intensifies.
