Real Madrid play Celtic in blockbuster as Champions League win means something has to give

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Carlo Ancelotti's side maintained their place at the top of La Liga heading into Tuesday's trip to Celtic Park.

Real Madrid warmed up for their Champions League clash at Celtic Park with a narrow win over Real Betis.

Carlo Ancelotti's reigning La Liga champions strengthened their position in the table after four games, maintaining a 100 per cent record in the opening weeks of their title defence. Goals from Vinicius Jr. and Rodrigo in both halves were enough to beat second-placed Betis and equalize through Sergio Canales in the first period.

Betis' bright start was wasted thanks to the class of Vinicius, who latched on to the ball over the top before calmly slotting a superb strike past goalkeeper Rui Silva. But the visitors refused to go away and equalized in the 17th minute thanks to former Real Madrid star Canales, a goal that Ancelotti's side conceded in very simple fashion. 

A throw-in in the Real Madrid penalty area was awarded to the attacking midfielder and he got it past Thibaut Courtois. From then on it led to a thrilling contest with the home side switching gears as the half progressed.

But Betis went into half-time level and needed second-half substitute Ancelotti to give his side a decisive second. The manager introduced Fede Valverde and it was his run and pass that saw Rodrigo score the winner - his first goal of the season.

Meanwhile, Celtic have prepared themselves well for Tuesday night's blockbuster. Ange Postecoglou's side opened up a five-point gap at the summit of the Premier League with a 4-0 thrashing of rivals Rangers.

Liel Abada led the way with a brace, while goals from Jota and David Turnbull piled on the woes of the Ibrox side. Both Celtic and Los Blancos start their group stage opener with unblemished home records - ensuring there is something in Glasgow's East End.