Kylian Mbappé delivered a stellar performance on Wednesday night, scoring twice as Real Madrid cruised to a 3–0 victory over Athletic Club at San Mamés, keeping the pressure firmly on league leaders Barcelona in the La Liga title race.
The French forward struck in both halves, with Eduardo Camavinga heading in Madrid’s second, ensuring Los Blancos responded strongly after Barcelona had briefly extended their lead to four points following Tuesday’s win over Atlético Madrid.
The victory comes at a crucial time for Real Madrid, who had endured a difficult run of three consecutive league draws and a heavy defeat to Liverpool, raising questions around manager Xabi Alonso, now in his debut season after taking over from Carlo Ancelotti last summer.
However, there were no signs of anxiety in Bilbao, as Madrid produced one of their most cohesive and dominant performances of the season.
Mbappé Opens the Scoring Early
Madrid started brightly, and Mbappé was denied in the 4th minute by Unai Simón, who also saved from Vinícius Júnior shortly after. The breakthrough came in the 7th minute when Trent Alexander-Arnold sent a pinpoint long pass to Mbappé, who drifted into the box and finished clinically past Simón.
Athletic’s Gorka Guruzeta forced Thibaut Courtois into a save during a rare attacking spell from the hosts, while their best chance of the half came when Nico Williams set up Alex Berenguer, but Courtois again stood firm.
Camavinga Adds the Second
Madrid regained full control, with Vinícius repeatedly threatening and even striking the post from a tight angle. The visitors doubled their lead before halftime after a slick team move. Mbappé headed Alexander-Arnold’s cross back across goal, allowing Camavinga to finish from close range.
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Mbappé Seals the Victory
Early in the second half, Courtois tipped over a fierce effort from Mikel Jauregizar, halting Athletic’s attempt at a comeback. Real Madrid regained momentum, and Mbappé completed his brace, his 16th league goal of the season, to put the match beyond doubt.
Injury Concerns for Madrid
Despite the comfortable win, Madrid suffered potential setbacks as Alexander-Arnold and Camavinga both appeared to pick up injuries and were substituted in the second half.
Real Madrid’s commanding performance keeps the title race alive as they continue their pursuit of Barcelona at the top of the table.
