Kylian Mbappé is just one goal shy of equaling Cristiano Ronaldo’s record for the most goals scored in a calendar year for Real Madrid. The French forward netted twice in his team’s 3-1 victory over Talavera in the Copa del Rey, taking his tally to 58 goals in 2025, just one behind Ronaldo’s 59 goals from 2013.
Mbappé’s brace came on either side of an own goal from Talavera’s Manuel Farrando. Real Madrid’s win ensured their progression to the last 16 of the competition, despite a late rally from the third-division side. The match saw a number of changes to the starting lineup, with manager Xabi Alonso making 10 alterations from the previous La Liga match against Alaves, including dropping key players like Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr. to the bench.
Early dominance and a two-goal lead
Real Madrid controlled the game from the outset but struggled to break down the Talavera defense until the 42nd minute, when Mbappé converted a penalty following a handball by Marcos Moreno. Just minutes later, Real extended their lead when Mbappé’s shot ricocheted off Farrando into his own net, giving the La Liga side a comfortable 2-0 advantage.
Despite Talavera’s efforts to mount a comeback, which saw Nahuel Arroyo pull a goal back in the 80th minute, the match was sealed when goalkeeper Jaime Gonzalez inadvertently parried an Mbappé shot into his own net in the 88th minute.
Real Madrid’s resurgence under Alonso
This win marked Real Madrid’s third victory in their last five matches, offering a positive sign after a difficult period in November, where they had managed just one win in five outings. Alonso, who had been facing mounting pressure, will take comfort in his side’s progress both in the Copa del Rey and in La Liga, where they are now second, just behind Barcelona. Real Madrid is also set to play their final two group-stage games in the Champions League in January, where they are currently sitting in seventh place.
