Real Madrid went into their tough La Liga match against Athletic Club in Bilbao needing a big result. After three disappointing league draws, the pressure was certainly on. They delivered a brilliant performance at the San Mamés stadium on Wednesday, securing a dominant 3-0 victory that put them right back in the thick of the title race.
Match Report
The star of the night was undoubtedly Kylian Mbappé, who scored two stunning goals and was involved in the third. The French superstar seemed determined to put on a show right from the start.
Real Madrid did not take long to break the deadlock as Mbappe showed a moment of pure class in the 6th minute of the match. After receiving a long, accurate pass from Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mbappé controlled the ball, easily skipped past a couple of Athletic defenders on a superb solo run, and then smashed a powerful, curling shot past the goalkeeper from the edge of the box.
Despite the early goal, Athletic Club didn’t give up, creating a few dangerous moments that tested Real Madrid’s veteran goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois. His crucial save midway through the first half proved to be a turning point.
Just before the halftime whistle, Real Madrid doubled their lead with a team effort. Alexander-Arnold delivered a fantastic cross from the right wing to the far post. Mbappé, still active, nodded the ball back across the goalmouth, setting up his fellow Frenchman, Eduardo Camavinga, who was perfectly positioned to head the ball in from close range. It gave Los Blancos a comfortable 2-0 lead going into the break.
The second half began with Athletic Club trying to find a way back, but Real Madrid’s control and discipline held firm. Any hope for the home side was extinguished just before the hour mark by Mbappé again.
Giving the forward a little too much space outside the penalty area proved costly. Mbappé once more unleashed a brilliant shot—a long-range effort that curled perfectly. Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simon could only watch as the ball soared into the net, sealing the 3-0 scoreline.
This 3-0 win was far more than just three points; it was a huge relief and a massive boost of confidence for manager Xabi Alonso and his players. It ended a run of three straight draws and sent a clear message to the rest of the league. The victory puts Real Madrid just a single point behind league leaders Barcelona, ensuring the title race remains incredibly tight and exciting heading into the busy winter schedule.
