Mbappé’s LaLiga Redemption: Real Madrid Star Fires Shut
Kylian Mbappé hasn’t been having the best of starts to his LaLiga campaign with Real Madrid. The French superstar had been blanks in his first three league games for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, sending fans and pundits alike into a flutter. But the 23-year-old didn’t let the pressure get the best of him, scoring a stunning brace in El Real’s 2-0 win over Real Betis on Sunday.
"We’ve never put pressure on him to score goals," Ancelotti said in a post-match interview. "Kylian had a good game. He was very effective in the area, he took his chances, he worked hard." And boy did he ever! Mbappé didn’t waste any time getting out of his scoring slump, netting twice in the second half. The first one came courtesy of Federico Valverde’s clever back-heeled assist, while the second saw him convert a penalty with ice in his veins.
The pressure was on after a goalless run in the top-flight, but Mbappé wouldn’t have it. "There’s no pressure, it’s football. I have my quality. I’m here to be Kylian. There’s no pressure. I’m happy, I want to work," he emphasized, dismissing any notion of a growing concern.
Mbappé took his chances, and boy, did he ever! He even managed to find the net in-front of the Santiago Bernabeu, securing his first LaLiga goal this season. "It was a great moment… I’ve been waiting to score at this legendary stadium, the best in the world. The fans give me a lot of affection, even when I wasn’t scoring," he beamed with pride.
Vinícius Júnior, who was fouled for the penalty, showed great aplomb by letting Mbappé take the spot-kick. "He was very altruistic, letting Kylian take the penalty," Ancelotti complimented. "They have a great relationship." The duo’s mutual respect and understanding are crucial aspects of their partnership, and with this win, they’ve laid the foundation for a strong second-half campaign.
Real Madrid remain hot on the heels of leaders Barcelona, trailing by just four points entering the international break. With Mbappé leading the charge, the Whites are poised for an exciting run-in. Now, it’s up to them to consistently deliver and make a solid case for the title.
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