Alvaro Arbeloaās Real Madrid continued their recovery under the new manager with a vital 2-1 victory over Villarreal. The win was largely down to the brilliance of Kylian Mbappe, who scored twice to help Madrid climb two points clear of their arch-rivals Barcelona in the La Liga standings.
The match started in a lively fashion, but neither side was able to break the deadlock in the first half. Villarrealās Georges Mikautadze came close to scoring, and Madridās Arda Guler had a few chances but was unable to convert.
It was Mbappe who made the breakthrough early in the second half, squeezing home a low cross from Vinicius Junior for his 20th league goal of the season.
Villarreal pressed for an equalizer but found themselves undone when Mbappe was fouled in the penalty area. The Frenchman calmly converted the resulting spot-kick, giving Madrid a commanding 2-0 lead in stoppage time.
This victory marks Real Madridās third consecutive win in all competitions and a significant step in their season revival under Arbeloa. Arbeloa praised their hard work, commitment, and the dangerous threat they pose to opposition defenses.
With the win, Real Madrid now have 47 points, two ahead of Barcelona, as they continue their pursuit of the La Liga title. Villarreal, despite a spirited effort, remain in fourth place with 37 points.
