Real Madrid secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Real Valladolid on Sunday at the Santiago Bernabéu, opening their account in La Liga with a decisive win. However, all eyes were on the French superstar Kylian Mbappé, who was making his home debut in front of the Madrid faithful. To the surprise of many, Mbappé failed to find the back of the net for the second consecutive match, leaving the door wide open for 18-year-old Brazilian prodigy Endrick to steal the spotlight.
Mbappé’s Frustrating Home Debut
Kylian Mbappé, one of the most anticipated signings in recent Real Madrid history, took to the pitch with high expectations. The French forward had a golden opportunity to open the scoring just nine minutes into the game. Receiving a long pass from center-back Antonio Rüdiger, Mbappé found himself in a promising position on the left edge of the penalty area. However, his powerful shot was met with a spectacular save from Valladolid’s goalkeeper Jordi Masip, who managed to deny the former PSG star.
Despite Madrid’s dominance in possession, the breakthrough only came in the 50th minute, and it wasn’t from the boot of Mbappé. Instead, it was Federico Valverde who stepped up to take a free kick just outside the penalty area. His powerful strike took a deflection off a Valladolid defender, wrong-footing Masip and sending the ball into the back of the net, giving Real Madrid the lead.
Mbappé, eager to make his mark, had a few more chances throughout the game. His best opportunity came in the 79th minute when he connected with a low cross from Vinícius Júnior, attempting a cheeky backheel flick. Unfortunately, it lacked the necessary power and precision, allowing Masip to make yet another save. Frustration was evident on Mbappé’s face as he was substituted just three minutes later, still searching for his first La Liga goal.
Endrick’s Dream Debut
While the spotlight was firmly on Mbappé, it was Endrick, the 18-year-old Brazilian sensation, who provided the final flourish for Real Madrid. Substituted in during the late stages of the match, Endrick wasted no time in making his presence felt. In the 88th minute, Brahim Díaz, another substitute, doubled Madrid’s lead with a well-taken chip over Masip, but it was Endrick who delivered the knockout punch.
In stoppage time, Endrick received the ball at the edge of the box, deftly maneuvered past a Valladolid defender, and unleashed a thunderous shot that rocketed into the net. The Santiago Bernabéu erupted in applause as the young Brazilian marked his debut with a sensational goal, sealing a comprehensive 3-0 victory for Los Blancos. Endrick’s performance was a reminder of the bright future that awaits Real Madrid, even as they navigate the growing pains of integrating a global superstar like Mbappé.
Ancelotti’s Take on the Match
After the match, Real Madrid’s manager Carlo Ancelotti was quick to defend his star striker. “Kylian is a fantastic forward. He has incredible speed, great movement off the ball, and is very dangerous behind defenders. He had three or four good chances today, and it’s only a matter of time before he starts scoring. He doesn’t necessarily need to play on the left wing; he can thrive as a central striker, and I’m confident that the goals will come,” Ancelotti said.
Ancelotti also praised Endrick, highlighting the young forward’s potential. “Endrick has shown great promise. His goal today is just a glimpse of what he’s capable of. He’s a classic center-forward, very dangerous in tight spaces, and has a natural instinct for goal-scoring. We’re excited to see him develop,” Ancelotti added.
FAQs
No, Kylian Mbappé did not score in the match against Valladolid. He remains goalless after two La Liga matches.
Federico Valverde, Brahim Díaz, and Endrick were the goal scorers for Real Madrid.
Endrick had an impressive debut, scoring a spectacular goal in stoppage time to seal a 3-0 victory for Real Madrid.
Carlo Ancelotti defended Kylian Mbappé’s performance and praised Endrick for his potential and goal-scoring ability.
Real Madrid will continue their La Liga campaign, hoping that Mbappé breaks his goal drought and that young talents like Endrick continue to shine.
Conclusion
Real Madrid’s comfortable 3-0 victory over Valladolid showcased both the challenges and opportunities facing the team this season. While Kylian Mbappé’s goal drought continues, the emergence of young talent like Endrick provides a silver lining for the future. Ancelotti’s confidence in his squad, combined with the depth of talent available, suggests that Madrid is well-positioned to compete on multiple fronts this season. The focus will now shift to their upcoming fixtures, where Mbappé will be eager to open his La Liga account and contribute to Real Madrid’s success.
