Led by a superstar-level performance from Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid earned an impressive 3–0 win at San Mamés. Mbappé delivered yet another brace in what was a truly XXL showing.
- Athletic Club 0-3 Real Madrid : Mbappé 7’, 60’, Camvinga 43’
Real Madrid arrived in Bilbao with two clear objectives: rediscover a dynamic attacking rhythm and take all three points — the exact opposite of the flat, disappointing draw they produced in Catalonia against Girona. Set up in a 4-3-3, with Alexander-Arnold and Valverde alternating in the right channel, Madrid immediately found the verticality they had been missing and neutralized Athletic’s early pressure.
The opening goal showcased Trent Alexander-Arnold’s elite long passing. His pinpoint ball sent Mbappé surging from midfield, and the Frenchman finished with a spectacular strike. Throughout the match, Vinícius and Mbappé combined with fluidity, constantly threatening the Basque defense. The Brazilian was lively but wasteful in the final third, highlighted by his shot off the post in the 33rd minute. Ten minutes later — after yet another missed opportunity from Vinícius — Madrid doubled their lead. Found at the back post by Trent, Mbappé headed the ball across goal for compatriot Eduardo Camavinga to tap in.
Up 2–0 at halftime, Madrid were fully in control. Even the injury exit of Alexander-Arnold didn’t slow them down. Instead, it was followed by the third goal of the night. Fed by Carreras, Mbappé produced his trademark near-post rocket, beating Unai Simón with ease.
Real Madrid leave San Mamés with confidence restored — and with the gap to Barcelona reduced to just one point.