Mbappe Masterclass Sinks Athletic as Real Madrid Tighten the LaLiga Title Race

Real Madrid arrived at San Mames under pressure to end a frustrating run of three straight league draws, and they responded with authority. Xabi Alonso’s men overpowered Athletic Club 3-0, powered by a scintillating Kylian Mbappe brace and a superb all-round display that reasserted Los Blancos’ title ambitions.

The visitors wasted no time stamping their authority. Just seven minutes in, Trent Alexander-Arnold picked up the ball and swept a cross-field pass into Mbappe’s stride. The French superstar drifted inside three red-and-white shirts before unleashing a ruthless finish into the right corner. It was his 15th LaLiga goal of the campaign and a reminder of why defenders fear him more than anyone in Europe.

Athletic responded brightly, forcing Courtois into several important saves. Guruzeta’s volley and Berenguer’s close-range strike both demanded strong hands from the towering Belgian. Moments later, Mbappe released Vinicius Junior, who struck the post from a tight angle as Madrid continued picking apart the hosts in transition.

Just before halftime, Real produced their best move of the match. Bellingham switched play brilliantly to Alexander-Arnold, who delivered an inviting cross to Mbappe. With composure and awareness, the striker cushioned the ball back across goal for Eduardo Camavinga to nod home from point-blank range. It was breathtaking football from a side playing with rhythm, confidence and precision.

Athletic went into the break frustrated, having produced decent chances but lacking the cutting edge required. Madrid, meanwhile, fully justified their 2–0 advantage with control, composure and efficiency.

Any hopes of an Athletic fightback were extinguished before the hour mark. After engaging in a bit of needle with Adama Boiro, Mbappe responded in the most devastating way possible—by finding the net again. Receiving the ball from Alvaro Carreras on the left, he unleashed a laser-guided strike into the bottom corner. Unai Simon was unsighted by Dani Vivian and had no chance.

With that, Mbappe sealed his brace and his 16th league goal of the season, strengthening his claim as the most dangerous forward in Spain.

Athletic produced the occasional threat—Areso’s lively introduction and Jauregizar’s long-range attempt forced Courtois into action—but their belief faded as Madrid tightened control. By the time Vesga volleyed wide late on, many home fans had already filtered out of San Mames.

The win not only lifts Madrid’s spirits but also cuts Barcelona’s lead at the top to just one point. With Mbappe in this kind of form, and the team rediscovering its spark after a lean month, the title race is very much alive.

Athletic remain eighth and will need to recover quickly, while Los Blancos appear to be gathering momentum just as the season enters its decisive stretch.