Celta Vigo delivered a commanding performance at the Estadio Abanca-Balaídos, defeating Valencia 4-1 in the 18th round of La Liga. Borja Iglesias was the star of the show, scoring twice, including a penalty in the 33rd minute, to lead his team to victory. The match began with drama as Valencia's Pepelu missed an early penalty, setting the tone for a challenging afternoon for the visitors.
Iglesias Leads Celta's Charge
The first half saw Celta Vigo take the lead through Iglesias's penalty, capitalizing on Valencia's missed opportunity. The second half was a showcase of Celta's attacking prowess, with Iglesias adding another goal in the 59th minute. Despite Valencia's efforts, including a goal from Pepelu in the 70th minute, Celta maintained control.
Late Goals Seal the Win
As the match progressed, Celta continued to press forward. J. El Abdellaoui and H. Alvarez scored in the 83rd and 90th minutes, respectively, ensuring a comprehensive victory. Valencia struggled to regain momentum, despite having more possession and shots, highlighting Celta's efficiency in front of goal.
Statistical Insights
Celta Vigo's victory was built on clinical finishing, with 6 shots on target from 12 attempts, compared to Valencia's 5 from 16. Despite Valencia's 60% possession, Celta's defense held firm, supported by 4 crucial saves. Borja Iglesias's performance was pivotal, with a player rating of 8, reflecting his influence on the game.
Looking Ahead
This victory marks a positive turn for Celta Vigo, who have shown resilience following recent mixed results. With Iglesias in fine form, they will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures. Valencia, meanwhile, will need to regroup and address their defensive vulnerabilities as they aim to climb the league standings.
