VALENCIA: Real Madrid maintained their perfect record in La Liga after beating Levante 4-1 early this morning.
Kylian Mbappe was the hero when he scored twice to take his tally to seven league goals from six matches, ensuring Xabi Alonso’s team remained at the top of the table with an unbeaten record.
Vinicius Junior opened the scoring in the 28th minute with a stunning finish before 18-year-old Argentine Franco Mastantuono added the second goal from Vinicius’ pass.
It was also Mastantuono’s first goal since moving from River Plate last summer.
Levante managed to close the gap in the second half through Karl Etta Eyong who headed in a rebound after Ivan Romero’s cross was hit by an opposing player.
However, the home team’s comeback did not last long when Mbappe added to Levante’s suffering by converting a penalty in the 66th minute after being brought down in the penalty box.
Two minutes later, the French striker cleverly bypassed the defender before beating goalkeeper Mathew Ryan for his second goal of the match.
“We played very well from the start, the first goal gave us confidence to control the game. Vini also showed a complete performance, I’m happy for him,” said Alonso.
Since missing out on the Ballon d’Or last season, Vinicius has struggled for consistency, but his brilliant display at Valencia was seen as a resurgence for the Brazilian star.
Mbappe, who previously struggled to adapt after moving from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024, has now found his true touch, with nine goals in seven games in all competitions this season.
“We still need to improve a few things, but the team is on the right track.
“We are building a solid foundation and everyone has an important role to play,” said Alonso, who will lead Real in the Madrid derby against Atletico this weekend.