Kylian Mbappe Shines as Real Madrid Returns to Winning Ways

Real Madrid bounced back in LaLiga with a commanding 3-0 victory over Athletic Club at San Mames, powered by a brace from Kylian Mbappé. The French forward opened the scoring early, breaking the deadlock in the seventh minute after a sublime assist from Trent Alexander-Arnold. Despite the setback of losing Alexander-Arnold to a suspected thigh injury shortly after, Madrid maintained control and never looked back.

Eduardo Camavinga added the second goal just before halftime, with Mbappé completing his double in the 59th minute to wrap up the win. The victory allows Madrid to reduce the gap to LaLiga leaders Barcelona, who had won 3-1 against Atlético Madrid earlier in the week. With their attacking trio in fine form, Madrid displayed both pace and precision throughout the game.

Mbappé’s 16th LaLiga goal of the season showcased his striking prowess. Vinícius Júnior also impressed, hitting the woodwork and testing Athletic’s goalkeeper Unai Simón several times. Xabi Alonso’s side dominated possession and dictated the tempo, keeping Athletic largely on the back foot.

Alexander-Arnold’s Early Impact

Trent Alexander-Arnold made an immediate impression in his fourth consecutive start for Real Madrid. The former Liverpool full-back displayed excellent vision, creating the opening goal with a perfectly weighted pass to Mbappé. His performance highlighted his growing importance in Madrid’s attacking play, though his night was cut short due to injury early in the second half.

Alexander-Arnold’s departure forced Alonso into an early tactical reshuffle, but the team’s momentum was unaffected. Camavinga quickly capitalized on Mbappé’s header to extend Madrid’s lead before the interval. Even with substitutions, Real continued to dominate, demonstrating their squad depth and tactical flexibility under Alonso.

Athletic Club struggled to exploit Alexander-Arnold’s absence, with few clear chances in the second half. Courtois remained largely untroubled, aside from a block on Álex Berenguer’s flicked effort, highlighting Real Madrid’s defensive solidity alongside their attacking threat.

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Mbappé’s Double Secures the Win

Mbappé’s second goal in the 59th minute proved decisive. The French striker unleashed a long-range strike beyond Simón, showcasing his accuracy and composure in front of goal. His performance not only secured the win but also demonstrated his continued influence on Real Madrid’s title challenge.

Vinícius and other key players remained influential, creating multiple scoring opportunities and maintaining high pressure on Athletic’s defense. Madrid’s attacking fluidity was a clear contrast to Athletic’s limited chances, with Courtois and the defensive line rarely troubled.

The result reinforces Madrid’s belief in their attacking trio of Mbappé, Vinícius, and Camavinga. Their chemistry continues to yield results, providing Alonso with multiple options for both goalscoring and creative play in upcoming LaLiga fixtures.

Madrid Holds Firm to Keep a Clean Sheet

Despite Athletic Club pushing for a late consolation goal, Madrid held firm to maintain a clean sheet. Alonso made further substitutions to protect key players, including Mbappé and Vinícius, ensuring his team remained fresh for the next challenge. The squad’s depth proved crucial in managing the game effectively.

Madrid’s defensive organization and control of possession neutralized Athletic’s attempts to mount pressure. Courtois’s composure in goal, combined with a disciplined backline, meant Athletic rarely threatened to score. This balance between attack and defense highlights Madrid’s maturity under Alonso this season.

With this win, Real Madrid remains firmly in the hunt for the LaLiga title, reducing Barcelona’s advantage and boosting confidence in their squad. The victory demonstrates the team’s ability to respond quickly after setbacks and reinforces Mbappé’s key role in the team’s ambitions. Follow the latest La Liga news only at footballtipsonline.co.uk.