A Return to San Mames: Pressure and Promise
Athletic Club’s 0-3 defeat to Real Madrid was a clash of two Basque managers under significant pressure. Xabi Alonso, the former Real Sociedad manager, returned to San Mames, a place where he was never particularly popular, with his Real Madrid side in need of a commanding performance. Meanwhile, Ernesto Valverde, the Athletic Club manager, was eager to see his team rediscover its former imposing nature. This high-stakes encounter was a testament to the ongoing narrative of managerial scrutiny in Spanish football, making the match far more than just a game.
Mbappe’s Masterclass: Early Dominance
From the onset, it was Kylian Mbappe who set the tone, showcasing why he has been the most consistent player in Real Madrid’s lineup this season. A brilliant cross-field pass from Trent Alexander-Arnold found Mbappe in space, and the French forward, with his characteristic speed and skill, drove at the Athletic defense, bypassing two players before slotting the ball into the corner. This goal set the stage for a dominant first half, where Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Junior continuously found spaces behind the Athletic defense. Despite a few missed opportunities—courtesy of the post and Unai Simon’s reflexes—Mbappe’s presence was undeniable. His ability to score from outside the box, recording five such goals in all competitions, further underlined his status as a sniper.
A Team Effort: Real Madrid’s Best Move
While Mbappe’s individual brilliance was a highlight, Real Madrid’s second goal was a collective masterpiece. The buildup involved a series of intricate passes between Bellingham, Vinicius, and Alvaro Carreras. Bellingham’s precision in finding Alexander-Arnold was crucial, and the latter’s pinpoint cross was headed back across the goal by Mbappe for Eduardo Camavinga to convert with ease. This goal, arguably the best move of the season for Los Blancos, showcased the team’s fluidity and cohesiveness. Thibaut Courtois, Real Madrid’s ever-reliable goalkeeper, also made a couple of crucial saves, reinforcing his reputation as one of the best in the world. Despite Alex Berenguer’s dangerous shot, Courtois’s reflexes ensured that Real Madrid maintained their lead.
Second-Half Surge: Athletic’s Efforts and Alexander-Arnold’s Exit
The second half began with Athletic Club showing more determination, with Mikel Jauregizar drawing a strong save from Courtois early on. However, the match took an unexpected turn when Alexander-Arnold, who was having one of his best games, had to be replaced by Raul Asencio due to an injury just ten minutes into the second half. Undeterred, Real Madrid continued to control the game, with Mbappe scoring a third goal from outside the box. This vicious strike, which left Unai Simon helpless, sealed the contest and highlighted the French forward’s exceptional form. Real Madrid’s defensive solidity and ability to counter effectively ensured that Athletic rarely posed a serious threat.
Mbappe’s Season: Unbelievable Numbers
Kylian Mbappe’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. With 25 goals and 4 assists, he has directly been involved in 66% of Real Madrid’s 44 goals this season. These numbers are a testament to his impact on the team and his ability to influence games in multiple ways. Mbappe’s combination of speed, skill, and finishing has made him a standout player, and his consistent performances have been crucial for Real Madrid’s success. The French forward’s ability to create and convert opportunities from various positions on the field has made him a nightmare for defenses and a joy for fans.
A Complete Performance: Alonso’s Triumph and Valverde’s Concern
The result of the match was a deep satisfaction for Xabi Alonso, whose tactical acumen and player management were on full display. Real Madrid’s attack was direct yet probing, maintaining a high tempo that made it difficult for Athletic to cope. Despite Unai Simon’s two notable saves, Courtois’s performance was relatively quiet, underlining the team’s defensive stability. This comprehensive victory was one of the most complete performances of the season for Real Madrid. For Ernesto Valverde, however, the match will be a cause for concern. Despite missing a few key players, Athletic’s inability to raise their game and challenge Real Madrid more effectively highlights the team’s current struggles. The lack of atmosphere in San Mames, a stark contrast to the usual vocal support, further emphasized the end of the contest and the challenges ahead for Valverde and his team.
