Mbappe brace fires Real Madrid to top of La Liga table
Real Madrid climbed to the summit of LaLiga after securing a composed 2–0 victory over Villarreal at the Estadio de la Cerámica.
Kylian Mbappé was the decisive figure, scoring twice to propel Los Blancos two points clear of Barcelona, who are scheduled to host Real Oviedo on Sunday.
The French forward opened the scoring shortly after the restart before sealing the result from the penalty spot late in the game.
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With Villarreal still harboring slim title ambitions, the contest began cautiously, with both sides prioritizing defensive discipline.
The clearest opportunity of the first half fell to Arda Güler in the 20th minute, but after weaving past several challenges, his effort was directed straight at goalkeeper Luiz Júnior.
Madrid eventually broke the deadlock early in the second half, courtesy of Mbappé, although the move was largely crafted by Vinícius Júnior.
The Brazilian winger beat Pau Navarro before his low cross was blocked by Pape Gueye, allowing Mbappé to react quickest and convert the rebound.
The opening goal stretched the game, with Mbappé and Vinícius both seeing further efforts blocked, while Villarreal responded through Alberto Moleiro, whose attempt was comfortably handled by Thibaut Courtois.
Álvaro Arbeloa’s men put the result beyond doubt deep into stoppage time.
Mbappé completed his brace with a calmly executed Panenka penalty after being fouled by Alfonso Pedraza, ensuring a valuable away win and top spot in the title race.
