Real Madrid returned to winning ways with a commanding 3-0 victory over Athletic Club, ending a three-game winless streak in La Liga and moving within a point of table-toppers Barcelona. The match, however, came with a worrying injury update as both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Eduardo Camavinga were forced off during the game.

Mbappe Leads the Charge

Kylian Mbappe was the star of the show at the Santiago Bernabéu, scoring twice and assisting once to ensure Real Madrid’s dominance. In the seventh minute, Mbappe expertly controlled a diagonal cross-field pass from Alexander-Arnold, skipped past two defenders, and slotted the ball into the bottom-right corner, putting Real ahead early.

He doubled as a provider in the 42nd minute when he met a clipped Alexander-Arnold delivery with a header across the goal, allowing Camavinga to nod home into an empty net. Shortly before the hour mark, Mbappe completed his brace with a low, dipping strike that left Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simón helpless. His 16th league goal of the season underlined his critical role in Real’s attack.

Injury Concerns for Real Madrid

The victory, however, was dampened by injury concerns. Alexander-Arnold, making only his fifth appearance since recovering from a hamstring issue, was forced off with a leg problem shortly after providing his first assist since joining from Liverpool in the summer. Camavinga also left the pitch injured, adding to Xabi Alonso’s selection headaches ahead of a crucial run in La Liga.

Despite these setbacks, the win was a crucial morale booster. Real had lost a five-point advantage at the top over the past month due to three consecutive draws, so defeating Athletic ensures they remain in striking distance of Barcelona.

Athletic Club Struggles Continue

Athletic Club extended their poor run in the league, suffering their seventh defeat in the last 12 matches. The Basque side remains eighth in La Liga with just 20 points, struggling to find form against the league’s top teams. Their defensive frailties were exposed repeatedly by Mbappe’s pace and Real Madrid’s clinical finishing.

Player of the Match honors went to Kylian Mbappe, who finished with an impressive average rating of 8.25, reflecting his influence throughout the match.

Looking Ahead for Real Madrid

With key players potentially sidelined, Alonso faces critical decisions in the coming weeks to maintain momentum in the title race. Real Madrid will need to manage fitness concerns carefully while continuing their push for top spot, particularly as Barcelona remain just a point ahead in La Liga.

Despite the injury worries, the performance showcased the depth and quality in Real Madrid’s squad, providing a statement of intent to rivals in Spain.