Real Madrid: Mbappé shines with a brace at San Mamés

Kylian Mbappé emerged as the standout performer for Real Madrid, scoring two goals in a commanding 3-0 victory over Athletic Club. The French superstar found the net early in the seventh minute, setting the tone for a match that was crucial for Madrid’s aspirations in La Liga. Following his opener, Mbappé provided a sublime assist to Eduardo Camavinga, who also scored, before sealing his brace just after the hour mark. This victory not only ended a frustrating run of three consecutive draws but also positioned Madrid just one point behind league leaders FC Barcelona.

This match at San Mamés was pivotal for Xabi Alonso and his squad, who faced mounting pressure after failing to secure wins against Rayo Vallecano, Elche, and Girona. “Kylian is in great form,” Alonso remarked during the post-match press conference. “Today, he scored two fantastic goals, and his connection with Vinícius Júnior was excellent.” The coach praised the overall team performance, emphasizing their focus and intensity throughout the game.

Tactical Analysis

Real Madrid kicked off the match with remarkable intensity, quickly asserting their dominance over Athletic Club. The first half showcased the Merengues’ ability to control play, maintaining a high tempo that kept their opponents on the back foot. Although possession dipped in the second half, Madrid effectively managed the game without losing control. “This was probably our most complete performance in a demanding stadium,” Alonso added, highlighting the significance of this win as they look to regain confidence ahead of upcoming fixtures.

Season Impact

With this brace, Mbappé has now scored 55 goals in 2025, inching closer to Cristiano Ronaldo‘s club record of 59 goals in a calendar year. Following the match, he expressed his commitment to the club on social media, stating, “This is my Madrid.” Despite this success, Alonso remained cautious about future expectations: “We take things one match at a time,” he insisted. “The road ahead is still long in this highly competitive La Liga season.” As Real Madrid continues its pursuit of FC Barcelona at the top of the table, this victory could prove to be a pivotal moment in their campaign. The synergy between Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior will undoubtedly be crucial as they prepare for their next challenges.

This decisive win not only boosts morale but also sets a positive tone for what lies ahead for Real Madrid in their quest for league glory.