The French star scored in the 68th minute in the European Super Cup against Europa League winners Atalanta Bergamo, making the final score 2-0 (0-0). Federico Valverde had already given the Champions League winners, who were without injured legionnaire David Alaba, the lead in Warsaw (59th).
Real Madrid became the sole winner of a record sixth Super Cup title. Rivals Barcelona and Milan have each won the top meeting of European Cup winners five times. Since Atletico Madrid beat Real in 2018, the winner of the first division has always prevailed.
“big problem”
Carlo Ancelotti was spoilt for choice in attack. “A big problem,” joked the Real Madrid coach. Thinking about who was playing ruined his vacation. Against Atalanta, Mbappé ran up front and was flanked by Brazilians Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo. Jude Bellingham acted behind him. David Alaba is still in rehab after tearing his cruciate ligament in December, and his return date is not yet set. The ÖFB corps member watched the match with his teammates from the bench.
After a comfortable first phase, new signing Mbappé had the first shot, but it was blocked (15). Beyond that, Real struggled to create chances. Atalanta defended too high at times, but above all in a disciplined way. The Italians almost managed to take the initiative. Real defender Eder Militao deflected a powerful cross from Martin den Roon onto the crossbar by mistake in the 25th minute. Shortly before the break, Rodrygo hit the aluminum at the opposite end (45+1).
At the start of the second half, Thibaut Courtois had to make his mark for the first time. Atalanta's Mario Pasalic forced Real's goalkeeper to do something wonderful with his head (47). A short period of pressure developed on the Italians, and Real were able to eliminate it with the opening goal. Vinicius Junior advanced at lightning speed from the left, and Valverde only had to cross the next ball over the line.
Shortly afterwards, Vinicius Junior and Bellingham missed first-class goals, but the second did not take long to arrive. Bellingham sent a pass to Mbappé at the back, who crowned his debut with a shot into the top corner. In the final stage, a cross from Vinicius Junior almost hit the target (82), but Real Madrid left the game in favor of Atalanta. But the Italians were no longer convincing.
More Stories
SW Bregenz v. GAK
German Cup: Eintracht deceives Gladbach
Gmunden Sharks are waiting for ATSE Graz