In a commanding display at the Santiago Bernabeu, Kylian Mbappe’s clinical brace propelled Real Madrid to a 2-0 victory over Villarreal, catapulting them to the summit of La Liga standings. The French superstar turned the game on its head in the second half, showcasing his predatory instincts and sealing a crucial win that keeps Madrid’s title charge firmly on track.
Real Madrid dominated possession and chances throughout, outclassing a Villarreal side that struggled once again against Spain’s elite trio of Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, and Barcelona. Mbappe struck first after Villarreal’s defense faltered on a menacing cross from Vinicius Junior, leaving the keeper with no chance. Then, in stoppage time, he coolly converted a penalty to confirm the three points, sending the home crowd into rapture.
The La Liga title race intensifies with every match. Atletico Madrid could extend their third-place lead with a home win against Mallorca on Sunday, while Barcelona aims to reclaim the top spot against bottom-dwellers Oviedo. Madrid’s latest triumph underscores their depth and resilience amid a grueling schedule.
Elsewhere, Osasuna notched their first away win of the season, thrashing Rayo Vallecano 3-1. Ante Budimir opened the scoring, with Victor Munoz and Asier Osambela adding late gloss. Sevilla edged Athletic Club Bilbao 2-1, Aitor Adams’ penalty proving decisive. Valencia survived a thriller against Espanyol, winning 3-2 thanks to Largie Ramazani’s 94th-minute spot-kick. Levante also triumphed 3-2 over Elche on Friday, with Alan Maturro’s last-gasp goal igniting the stadium.
La Liga’s drama is at fever pitch, from the relentless title hunt to the desperate relegation scrap, promising more twists ahead.