Kylian Mbappé dazzled at the Bernabéu on Thursday night, scoring a spectacular solo goal during Real Madrid’s 5-2 extra-time victory over Celta Vigo in the Copa del Rey. The French forward, who joined Carlo Ancelotti’s side on a free transfer last summer, has faced criticism despite his impressive tally of 16 goals this season. Recently, former Manchester United player Patrice Evra suggested that Mbappé is overhyped and shouldn’t be compared to legends like Thierry Henry.
However, Mbappé silenced critics with a stunning solo effort, picking up the ball in his own half and driving into the box before finishing from a tight angle to score the opening goal. After Vinícius Jr. doubled Real’s lead early in the second half, it seemed the European champions were on course for an easy win.
Celta Vigo, however, made a comeback with late goals from Jonathan Bamba and Marcos Alonso, taking the match into extra time. In response, Brazilian teenager Endrick, who came off the bench, scored twice, and Federico Valverde added another goal to secure Real Madrid’s place in the quarter-finals.
Endrick dedicated his goals to teammate Antonio Rüdiger, who has been a significant source of support for him. The 18-year-old acknowledged, “He knows what he does with me every day. He never compliments me, which is good because he tells me what I should do. If I don’t play, he tells me to keep fighting.” He expressed gratitude for Rüdiger’s guidance, stating, “These two goals are for him.”
The victory was a much-needed boost for Mbappé and the squad as they prepare for a busy month ahead. Real Madrid will host Las Palmas in La Liga on Sunday, hoping to close the gap on Atlético Madrid, who sit just a point ahead at the top of the table. Following that, they face RB Salzburg in the Champions League, where they desperately need points, currently sitting at the bottom of their group. Mbappé’s performance and Endrick’s emergence could be pivotal as the team navigates this crucial stretch of the season.
