Real Madrid returned to form in LaLiga with a commanding 3-1 victory over Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu, highlighted by a dazzling performance from Vinícius Júnior.

The Brazilian winger was instrumental in securing the win, netting twice—once from open play and once from the penalty spot—before Kylian Mbappé added the final touch to seal the triumph. Despite a moment of brilliance from Georges Mikautadze that briefly reignited Villarreal’s hopes, Madrid’s dominance was never truly in question.

Vinícius Júnior Steals the Show

The spotlight was firmly on Vinícius Júnior, whose electrifying pace and clinical finishing left Villarreal’s defense in disarray. His first goal came from a well-executed team move, while his second, a coolly converted penalty, underscored his growing maturity and composure under pressure. Vinícius’s influence was evident throughout the match as he registered 78 touches in the final third, more than double any Villarreal player.

Midfield Mastery

Aurélien Tchouaméni orchestrated the midfield with precision, achieving an impressive 97.1% pass completion rate, the highest of any player on the pitch. His ability to dictate play was complemented by solid performances from Dean Huijsen, Jude Bellingham, and Dani Ceballos, who ensured Madrid maintained control with pass completion rates of 94.7%, 93.8%, and 91.9%, respectively.

Mbappé’s Late Impact

Kylian Mbappé, though quieter for much of the match, made his presence felt late on by scoring a decisive goal that extinguished any lingering hopes for Villarreal. His contribution extended beyond scoring; alongside Vinícius, he delivered three or more key passes, showcasing his ability to create opportunities for his teammates.

Statistical Superiority

Álvaro Carreras emerged as a key figure in Madrid’s tactical setup, topping the match with 14 progressive passes and 106 total touches. This numerical dominance translated into effective ball retention and territorial control, which were crucial in stifling Villarreal’s attempts to mount a comeback.

The victory not only reaffirmed Real Madrid’s title ambitions but also highlighted their depth and versatility across all areas of the pitch. As they continue their campaign, questions linger: Can anyone stop this formidable Madrid side when they are firing on all cylinders?