Marco Asensio scored and assisted to lead a sharp-looking Real Madrid side past Celta Vigo as they prepare for the Champions League semi-final.
The Spanish winger took advantage of a rare start, while Eder Militao scored a thumping header to lift Real Madrid past Celta Vigo, with an easy 2-0 win.
Asensio, handed a spot in the XI for the 11th time this season, was at his best, firing Real Madrid into a 1-0 lead shortly before half-time with a composed finish. His efforts will help his case to feature against Manchester City in the upcoming Champions League semi-final.
Madrid doubled their advantage after the break, with Militao soaring to meet Asensio's corner with a header into the bottom corner.
This was a relatively meaningless game for Madrid in terms of domestic ambitions; Barcelona have La Liga wrapped up with eight games remaining. Still, Los Blancos put in a professional performance, one that suggests they can to head into the Champions League semi-final on May 9 with clear concentration and incisive play.
GOAL rates Real Madrid's players from the Santiago Bernabeu…
Getty ImagesGoalkeeper & Defence
Thibaut Courtois (7/10):
Denied Iago Aspas for his one real involvement in proceedings. Clean sheet number nine on the season.
Nacho (6/10):
Had an ill-advised attempt on goal, but was otherwise solid.
Eder Militao (7/10):
Scored the second with a towering header. Should probably be among the goals more, given his aerial ability.
Antonio Rudiger (6/10):
Has fallen behind David Alaba in the pecking order in recent weeks, but took his chance well with the Austrian sidelined.
Eduardo Camavinga (8/10):
Still doesn't like playing left-back, but he's getting very good at it. Sprinted 30 yards to prevent Iago Aspas from pulling one back.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesMidfield
Federico Valverde (5/10):
Is he best used as a third centre-midfielder? Seems to lack his usual punch when part of a trio.
Aurelien Tchouameni (7/10):
Given a chance to prove himself after losing his spot in the side earlier this year. Did well, especially against the dangerous Gabri Veiga. He's still very much the future of this team.
Dani Ceballos (7/10):
Instrumental in the Real Madrid opener, tidy in possession. With his deal expiring in June, this was a performance that very-much suggests he deserves a new contract.
Attack
Marco Asensio (8/10):
Handed a start after providing a healthy goal return of late. Delivered again, firing Vinicius Junior's cut-back into the far corner. Assisted the second, too. 11 goals and seven assists so far this year in all competitions.
Karim Benzema (5/10):
A bit loose inside the box, fired one over with lots of space. Not his best showing – he doesn't look fit.
Vinicius Junior (7/10):
Assisted Asensio after a lovely run. Absolutely electric in the second half. Unlucky not to be among the goals.
(C)Getty imagesSubs & Manager
Lucas Vasquez (6/10):
Little to do, is pretty much fourth choice at this point.
Luka Modric (6/10):
A late run-out. Probably didn't need to be risked.
Rodrygo (N/A):
Stretch of the legs after a brace against Chelsea.
Carlo Ancelotti (8/10):
Left out Modric, Rodrygo and Toni Kroos, bringing Ceballos, Asensio and Tchouameni into the fold. And Madrid's levels didn't drop without some of the big names. All eyes are certain to be on the Champions League semi-final, but league wins – no matter how insignificant – never hurt.