Kylian Mbappé once again proved why he is considered one of the best players in the world, delivering a scintillating performance in Real Madrid’s 4-1 victory over Las Palmas.
His brace, coupled with his all-around contribution, lifted Los Blancos to the top of the LaLiga table, much to the delight of head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Carlo Ancelotti did not hold back in his praise for Mbappé after the match. The French forward, who reached an incredible milestone of 301 career goals, was described by the veteran coach as “the best centre forward in the world.” Mbappé’s ability to seamlessly transition into a central role has silenced any doubts about his versatility.
“He is a great striker who is very good playing in the centre, rather than on the wing, because that way he can make the most of his unique runs, with speed and technique,” Ancelotti said.
This shift in positioning has not only elevated Mbappé’s game but also revitalized Real Madrid’s attacking dynamics. Against Las Palmas, Mbappé showcased his brilliance with two well-taken goals and was instrumental in creating opportunities for his teammates, ending the match with 12 touches in the opposition box and five chances created.
The game at the Santiago Bernabeu didn’t start as planned for Real Madrid. Just 28 seconds into the match, Fabio Silva capitalized on a defensive lapse to stun the home crowd. It was the second-fastest goal conceded by Real Madrid in the 21st century, a moment that could have rattled any team. However, this setback seemed to ignite Madrid’s determination.
Mbappé quickly restored parity from the penalty spot after Rodrygo was fouled in the box. This was a pivotal moment that shifted the momentum back in Madrid’s favor. Brahim Diaz then put them ahead before Mbappé added his second with a composed finish. Rodrygo sealed the victory with a goal after the break, ensuring a comprehensive win.
With his two goals against Las Palmas, Mbappé reached the remarkable milestone of 301 career goals. Breaking it down, he scored 18 goals for Real Madrid, 27 for Monaco, and a staggering 256 for Paris Saint-Germain. This achievement underscores his consistency and excellence across different leagues and competitions.
Mbappé’s contributions go beyond scoring goals. His ability to influence the game with his creativity, movement, and decision-making is unparalleled. In this match, his performance was a masterclass in how a centre forward can dominate not just the scoresheet but also the flow of the game.
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Responding to Criticism
Real Madrid’s recent form had drawn criticism from fans and pundits alike. A heavy 5-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Supercopa de España final and a hard-fought extra-time win over Celta Vigo in the Copa del Rey left many questioning the team’s resilience.
Ancelotti acknowledged the boos from the home crowd but saw it as an opportunity for reflection and growth. “In times of difficulty, it is necessary to be self-critical and positive in order to move forward,” he said. “The booing at the Santiago Bernabeu hurts, because the fans are not happy, but it motivates.”
The win over Las Palmas was a statement response. It showcased not only Mbappé’s brilliance but also the team’s collective resolve to bounce back and reclaim their place at the top of the table.
The Bigger Picture
Real Madrid’s rise to the LaLiga summit was further sweetened by Atletico Madrid’s 1-0 loss to Leganes. The victory against Las Palmas highlighted Madrid’s ability to capitalize on their rivals’ slip-ups. With the business end of the season approaching, Ancelotti’s side looks poised to mount a serious title challenge.
However, Ancelotti remains cautious. “Football is like that,” he said. “I’ve heard that we play very bad football, but here we are, LaLiga leaders.” His pragmatic approach reflects the challenges of maintaining consistency in one of the world’s most competitive leagues.
With Mbappé firing on all cylinders and the team finding their rhythm, Real Madrid’s prospects look brighter than ever. The Frenchman’s impact cannot be overstated; he is not just a goal scorer but a game-changer who elevates those around him.
As the season progresses, the key for Real Madrid will be maintaining this momentum. Tough fixtures lie ahead, and the competition at the top of the table remains fierce. But with players like Mbappé in their ranks, Los Blancos have every reason to believe they can go the distance.
