MADRID, Aug 26 – In a highly anticipated La Liga clash, Spanish champions Real Madrid triumphed over Real Valladolid with a 3-0 win at the Santiago Bernabeu. However, the spotlight was on Kylian Mbappe, who made his home debut in a Los Blancos shirt but failed to make an impact on the scoreboard.
Real Madrid’s Dominant Second Half Seals Victory
A Slow Start for Madrid
The match began under the sweltering summer heat in Madrid, with Real Valladolid setting out to frustrate the reigning champions. Madrid, without their injured star Jude Bellingham, struggled to find their rhythm in the first half. The team lacked fluency in their attacking play, and Valladolid’s defense held firm, keeping the scoreline level at halftime.
Valverde Breaks the Deadlock
The second half saw a more determined Real Madrid side. Carlo Ancelotti’s men returned to the pitch with renewed energy and urgency. Their efforts paid off when midfielder Fede Valverde unleashed a powerful low free-kick that took a deflection and found the back of the net in the 50th minute. This goal broke the deadlock and set the tone for the remainder of the match.
Substitutes Make the Difference
As the game progressed, Ancelotti made strategic substitutions that further solidified Madrid’s dominance. Brahim Diaz, who came off the bench, doubled Madrid’s lead with a brilliant lobbed finish. Not long after, Endrick, the 18-year-old Brazilian forward making his debut, added the third goal with a precise shot at the near post, sealing a comfortable 3-0 victory for Los Blancos.
Mbappe’s Home Debut Falls Short
Frustration in Front of Goal
Kylian Mbappe’s much-anticipated home debut was met with frustration as the French striker struggled to break through Valladolid’s defense. Despite several opportunities, including a golden chance set up by Vinicius Jr., Mbappe was unable to find the net. His closest effort came when Estonian goalkeeper Karl Hein made a crucial save, denying the France captain his first La Liga goal for Madrid.
Ancelotti’s Faith in Mbappe
Despite Mbappe’s goalless performance, Carlo Ancelotti remains confident in the forward’s abilities. “He’s a spectacular forward, very fast, moves well without the ball, attacks in behind,” Ancelotti said in a post-match interview. “In this position, he will score like he always scores. I don’t think he needs to play from the left; in the center, he will score goals.”
Mbappe, who had scored on his debut in the UEFA Super Cup, has yet to find the back of the net in La Liga after two matches. However, Ancelotti believes it’s only a matter of time before the French star begins to deliver in Spain’s top-flight league.
The Rise of Endrick
While Mbappe’s performance was underwhelming, the young Brazilian talent Endrick shone brightly. The 18-year-old, who was signed from Palmeiras in 2022 but only joined the team this summer, made an immediate impact. His goal in his first appearance for the club showcased his potential and earned praise from Ancelotti. “He’s a center-forward who plays in the box, in small spaces he’s very dangerous,” Ancelotti remarked.
Atletico Madrid Cruises to Victory Over Girona
Griezmann Leads the Charge
Elsewhere in the capital, Atletico Madrid also enjoyed a successful evening, comfortably defeating Girona 3-0. Antoine Griezmann opened the scoring for Diego Simeone’s side with a well-placed free-kick that caught Girona’s goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga off guard. The French forward’s goal set Atletico on course for their first win of the season.
Llorente and Koke Secure the Points
Marcos Llorente doubled Atletico’s lead early in the second half with a thunderous strike from outside the box that rocketed into the top corner. Girona, who were last season’s surprise package, struggled to mount a comeback. Atletico’s captain Koke added a third goal in stoppage time, sealing a comprehensive victory for the Rojiblancos.
Girona’s Struggles Continue
For Girona, it was a disappointing result after their strong performance last season. The team, which finished third in La Liga last term, has only managed to secure one point from their first two matches this season. “It’s a process, the season is long but we want to get to our best version as soon as we can,” said Girona midfielder Oriol Romeu, reflecting on the team’s slow start.
Conclusion: A Night of Mixed Fortunes in Madrid
As Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid both secured important victories, the capital city witnessed a night of mixed fortunes. While Los Blancos celebrated their first win of the season, Kylian Mbappe will be looking to improve his form in the upcoming matches. Meanwhile, Atletico’s commanding performance suggests they are ready to challenge for top honors once again.