Mbappé, Bellingham shine in Real Madrid's 2-0 win over Getafe

Mbappé scores to seal victory

Mbappé, who had faced some criticism from Madrid supporters for his underwhelming performances, particularly after a disappointing display against Liverpool in the Champions League midweek, found the net in the 38th minute to secure all three points for Madrid. His goal came after a well-executed assist from Jude Bellingham, who had opened the scoring in the 30th minute with a penalty.

Much-needed confidence boost

The goal was important for Mbappé, who had scored just once in Madrid’s last six matches across all competitions and only twice in the previous nine games. After the match, Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti praised the forward’s performance: “He played very well, was active and was as dangerous as always.”

Penalty taker controversy

While Mbappé’s contribution was vital, he did not take either of the two penalties awarded to Madrid during the match. Bellingham converted one in the 30th minute and the second — originally set to be taken by Rodrygo — was overturned by VAR. Ancelotti explained the penalty-taking order: “The order for the penalties is Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior, but without Vinícius, it was up to Bellingham and Mbappé to choose.”

Madrid closes gap on Barcelona

The win was crucial for Madrid, as it moved them within a point of league leaders Barcelona, who were beaten 2-1 by Las Palmas on Saturday. With a game in hand, Madrid is now only one point behind Barcelona, while also holding a slim advantage over city rivals Atlético Madrid, who won 5-0 at Valladolid.

Champions League challenges loom

Despite their recent league form, Madrid’s struggles in the Champions League continue. The team has lost three of their five group-stage matches, though they’ve bounced back with three consecutive league wins. As Antonio Rüdiger noted, Madrid’s focus must remain sharp: “Things have been going well in La Liga since the last defeat, but we cannot get sidetracked because this is what Real Madrid demands. We must continue and do better in the Champions League.”

Other La Liga results

In other Sunday action, Villarreal were held to a 2-2 draw at home by Girona, conceding a late equalizer in the seventh minute of stoppage time after leading 2-0. Athletic Bilbao came from behind to beat Rayo Vallecano 2-1, with Oihan Sancet scoring both goals in the second half. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad defeated Real Betis 2-0 at home.