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Goals from Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé sealed a 2–0 victory over Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabéu, as the French star equalled Cristiano Ronaldo’s long-standing record of 59 goals in a calendar year.
Real Madrid rounded off the year on a high note with a deserved home win against Sevilla, combining control, intensity and individual brilliance. Bellingham’s first-half header and Mbappé’s late penalty ensured all three points for Xabi Alonso’s side in a match played at a relentless pace from the opening whistle.
Fast Start, End-to-End Action
Madrid threatened early, with Rodrygo threading a sublime pass through to Fran García after five minutes, only for Odysseas Vlachodimos to deny the full-back in a one-on-one. Sevilla responded almost immediately, as Isaac broke clear in the seventh minute but dragged his effort narrowly wide.
The hosts continued to press. A swift transition led by Arda Güler released Mbappé inside the box, but his angled effort flashed just past the post. As the half progressed, Madrid asserted greater control, dominating possession and territory.
Bellingham Breaks the Deadlock
The breakthrough arrived in the 38th minute. Rodrygo delivered a pinpoint free-kick from the flank, and Jude Bellingham rose above his marker to power a header into the net, sending the Bernabéu into celebration. Madrid carried their 1–0 advantage into the interval.
Courtois Stands Tall After the Restart
Sevilla nearly levelled moments after half-time when Alexis found himself through on goal, but Thibaut Courtois produced an outstanding save to preserve Madrid’s lead. At the other end, Mbappé dazzled with a solo run past Gudelj and Carmona, only to see his shot miss the target by inches.
The match opened up, producing chances in quick succession. Mbappé tested Odysseas from close range, while Courtois made two superb saves to deny Isaac in the 52nd and 56th minutes. The French forward then came agonisingly close again, his header rattling the crossbar.
Turning Point and Late Pressure
Sevilla’s task became even harder in the 68th minute when Marcão was sent off for a second yellow card. Madrid pushed for a decisive second goal, coming close when Rodrygo unleashed an acrobatic volley that forced another fine save from Odysseas before striking the bar.
Mbappé Makes History
The decisive moment arrived in the 85th minute. Rodrygo won a penalty after being brought down by Juanlu, and Mbappé stepped up to convert calmly from the spot. The goal marked his 59th of the calendar year, equalling the club record set by Cristiano Ronaldo in 2013. The Frenchman paid tribute to his idol by recreating Ronaldo’s iconic celebration.
Madrid saw out the closing stages professionally, with Courtois maintaining a clean sheet to cap a commanding team performance.
Featured Players
- Jude Bellingham (Midfielder) – Opened the scoring with a commanding header
- Kylian Mbappé (Forward) – Scored the decisive goal and matched a historic club record
- Thibaut Courtois (Goalkeeper) – Outstanding saves to secure the shutout
