Real Madrid: Mbappé’s Heroics in Tense Copa del Rey Victory

Real Madrid faced a nail-biting finish against CF Talavera, but Kylian Mbappé’s brilliance ensured their progression in the Copa del Rey. The French forward was instrumental, contributing to all three goals in a match that exposed some vulnerabilities within the squad. Despite a solid performance for much of the game, Xabi Alonso‘s side nearly let victory slip away in the closing minutes, raising questions about their composure under pressure.

As the match unfolded at El Prado, Real Madrid initially seemed in control, showcasing their dominance against a third-division opponent. However, the final ten minutes revealed cracks in their defensive structure and tactical choices. Alonso’s substitutions appeared to reflect a sense of fear rather than confidence, with only one Castilla player introduced during a crucial phase of the match. This decision came as a surprise, considering the comfortable position they held before the late-game drama unfolded.

Mbappé Shines Again

Kylian Mbappé once again proved to be the savior for Real Madrid, participating in all three goals scored by his team. Although he may not yet be at peak fitness, his impact was undeniable. He was fortunate to benefit from an own goal and capitalized on a goalkeeper error for his second goal, yet it was his relentless drive that kept Madrid afloat in a precarious situation. With this performance, he is now just one goal shy of Cristiano Ronaldo‘s record for the most goals scored in a calendar year for the club.

Concerns Over Tactical Decisions

Xabi Alonso’s choices during the match sparked debate among fans and analysts alike. His body language at the final whistle suggested anxiety rather than assurance, especially when facing a team that had previously been defeated by Real Madrid’s B team. The coach opted to bring on established players like Aurélien Tchouaméni and Jude Bellingham instead of giving younger talents like Thiago or Joan Martinez their chance to shine. This cautious approach nearly cost them dearly as Talavera applied pressure late on.

The performances of other squad members also raised eyebrows; players like Mastantuono and Ceballos failed to capitalize on this opportunity to impress their coach. As the season approaches its halfway mark, these domestic cup matches are critical for players seeking to earn their place in Alonso’s plans. However, many did not rise to the occasion against an opponent they were expected to dominate.

With injuries and suspensions looming over the squad ahead of their next league fixture against Sevilla, Alonso must consider taking calculated risks with his selections moving forward. The reliance on Mbappé is becoming increasingly evident; while his contributions are invaluable, it is vital for Real Madrid to cultivate a more balanced team dynamic.

The match served as a reminder that even giants can stumble against lower-tier opposition if they fail to maintain focus and confidence throughout. As they prepare for their next challenge, questions linger about how effectively this team can adapt under pressure and whether they can overcome their dependence on individual brilliance.