Mbappé on 50th Madrid goal: I do what Xabi asks
Kylian Mbappé marked a significant milestone by scoring his 50th goal for Real Madrid in their recent UEFA Champions League fixture against Olympique de Marseille on Tuesday, netting twice to secure a 2-1 comeback victory. The French forward, who joined Real Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain in July 2024, converted two penalties in the match, consolidating his prolific goal-scoring form early in the 2025-26 season under manager Xabi Alonso’s guidance.
Mbappé’s milestone came in just his 64th appearance for the club, underscoring his scoring efficiency. Both goals came from the penalty spot—first to level the score after a foul on Rodrygo Goes, and second following a handball forced by an incisive run from Vinícius Jr. His composure and clinical finishing from the spot demonstrated his importance in critical moments, helping Real Madrid overcome playing with ten men after Dani Carvajal’s sending off.
Since arriving, Mbappé has adapted well to the tactical demands of Alonso, who emphasizes a high pressing style and collective defensive effort. Mbappé himself acknowledged following Alonso’s instructions closely, emphasizing his willingness to contribute to pressing and off-ball work to help the team win trophies. His blend of physicality, speed, and strategic pressing has complemented Real Madrid’s attacking dynamic, providing both goal-scoring threat and tactical balance.
Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has praised Mbappé’s personality, leadership, and impact since taking charge, noting that despite the pressure, the player remains focused and unperturbed in pursuing Champions League success, a title he has yet to win in his career. Mbappé already holds a record of scoring across all competitions for Madrid and continues to be central to their ambitions in both domestic and European competitions.
This milestone represents not only a personal achievement for Mbappé but also a crucial step in Real Madrid’s strategic rebuild under Alonso, targeting sustained success across Spain and Europe. It affirms the club’s investment in the young forward as a linchpin of their squad and highlights Mbappé’s growing legacy in the white shirt as one of the preeminent forwards in world football.