Kylian Mbappé scored twice as Real Madrid survived a scare to edge third-division Talavera 3–2 in the Copa del Rey round of 32, sealing qualification after a tense late finish.
Mbappé opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 41st minute before playing a role in Madrid’s second goal, an own goal by Manuel Farrando during first-half stoppage time.
The France international then proved decisive again in the second half, drilling home a long-range effort to restore Madrid forcing advantage after Talavera threatened a comeback.
The brace took Mbappé’s tally to 10 goals in his last six matches across all competitions, underlining his growing influence in Madrid’s attack.
“He was crucial,” Madrid coach Xabi Alonso said after the match. “Kylian has a natural instinct for goal. The third goal was decisive, which is why we kept him on the pitch.”
Read also:
- Thierry Henry to receive BBC Lifetime Achievement Award
- Liverpool parade attacker jailed for 21 years, 6 months over crowd rampage
- Model sues pregnant Cardi B, Boyfriend Stefon Diggs, claims NFL star fathered her 5-month-old Baby
Despite dominating possession for large stretches, Madrid were made to sweat late on as Talavera mounted a spirited fightback.
Nahuel Arroyo pulled one back for the hosts in the 80th minute, while Gonzalo Di Renzo added another in stoppage time to set up a nervy finish.
A vital last-gasp save by goalkeeper Andriy Lunin preserved Madrid’s slim lead and prevented an upset that would have intensified scrutiny on Alonso following a run of mixed results.
Madrid, who were without several regular starters, largely controlled proceedings but failed to put the game beyond reach earlier.
“We managed the first half well and took advantage, but not making it 3–0 earlier kept the match alive,” Alonso said.
“The second half was competitive. We had chances to kill the game, but it stayed open until the end. The important thing is that we achieved our objective.”
Real Madrid will now turn their attention back to La Liga, where they face Sevilla on Saturday in their final league fixture of 2025.
