La Primera Liga Preview: Celta Vigo – Real Madrid
Los Galacticos travel to Galicia to take on Celta Vigo, looking to avenge their September humiliation at El Bernabeu. But Celta are just three points behind in the table, and also fancy their chances at home. Could it be the proverbial banana-skin?
BACKGROUND
Real Madrid have finally run into something they can call form. Lopez Caro has led them to five consecutive wins, which in turn has consolidated his position, at least until the end of the season.
It is understandable that with a Spanish coach, and more importantly, a 'Madridista', the non-Galactic likes of Guti and Pavon are making themselves count. Raul and Casillas have also, expectedly, come out strongly in favour of Caro being given an extended run.
Rather unexpected, though, has been the form of Robinho. Following his patron Luxemburgo's exit, there was a huge cloud over the Brazilian's role in the scheme of things. But Caro's handling of the youngster has come as a pleasant surprise, and January has seen some of his best yet.
It wouldn't be mere speculation to suggest Caro's experience with the B team, and youngsters in particular, will have come in handy. Even the rebellious Cassano, who gave the likes of Capello, not to mention Del Neri and Spalletti, some nightmares, has shown a refreshing attitude.
The upturn in fortunes has thrown them firmly into the Champions League equation, and with a Cup semi-final berth already secured, there might just be some success after all. The problem, however, lies in the League, where a thirteen point disadvantage might just prove too much, unless Barcelona massively self-destruct.
With Valencia having picked up steam as well, second position is far from assured, either. A convincing win on Sunday, however, will be the biggest indication yet that Real Madrid can be counted upon, even against difficult teams.
For in Celta Vigo, they have opponents more than capable of holding their own against the best. The Galicians have put in solid performances since their return to top flight football, despite a minor December debacle, and a European berth is a distinct possibility.
An encounter with Real Madrid requires little in terms of external motivation. Add to that the fact that a win could see them leap-frog even Real Madrid in the standings, and we have a team that will be fired up for this encounter.
LEAGUE FORM
Celta Vigo: LLLWDW
A disappointing December saw them go down to Barcelona, Deportivo, and Zaragoza, and slip from third to eighth in the process. But seven points from three games in January has meant that the dip in form has been fast forgotten, and a win here could see them jump back into the top four.
Real Madrid: WDLDWW
A similar seven points from three games in January has seen them relegate the poor Christmas period to the past, one which saw them go down to the likes of Racing Santander. The Merengues are finally looking firmly ahead, and with some conviction.
TEAM NEWS
Celta Vigo: The big news is that Fernando Baiano has failed to recover in time for the clash, after injuring himself last week. He might still make the bench, but former 'Madridista' Javi Guerrero is certain to start in his place. After spending six years in the Real Madrid B and C teams, and the odd appearance for the senior team, the forward is desperate to leave a mark. The only other change will see Placente come in at left back, after missing out last week.
Real Madrid: Ronaldo, Salgado, and Pablo Garcia are still out injured. However, Woodgate, Pavon and Helguera have been pronounced match-fit. Guti and Zidane have also surpassed their minor niggles, much to the delight of Lopez Caro. Cicinho should start again on the right, while Cassano might have to wait for the second half, with Baptista being preferred.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Celta Vigo: Cannobio
A solid eighteen months for the Galicians has shown exactly why Valencia snapped him up as a youngster. With a faithful midfield, he has been given the freedom to express himself, and is behind in assists only Ronaldinho and Riquelme.
Real Madrid: Robinho
Zidane and Guti will both be crucial to the Merengues creating problems for Celta, as will Beckham. But the man of the moment for them is Robinho. Not yet consistent over ninety minutes, he has this uncanny knack of picking it up for a few minutes, and making the difference.
PROBABLE LINE-UPS
Celta Vigo: 4-1-4-1 (right to left): Pinto – Angel, Sergio, Lequi, Placente – Oubiña - Nuñez, Cannobio, Jorge, Silva – Guerrero.
Real Madrid: 4-1-4-1 (right to left): Casillas – Cicinho, Ramos, Helguera, Carlos – Gravesen – Beckham, Guti, Zidane, Robinho – Baptista.
PREDICTION
It is difficult to see Real Madrid dominating this match. That said, it is equally difficult to see them go down, given their ability to create moments of magic. A Real Madrid win is what Spanish football needs at the moment.
Celta Vigo 1 – 2 Real Madrid
stolen from goal.com
John anthony says go with the draw....big money!