Kylian Mbappe was at the heart of everything good for Real Madrid as Los Blancos secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Real Sociedad in San Sebastián on Saturday night. The French forward opened the scoring after just 12 minutes, capitalizing on a loose back-pass and using his trademark pace to glide past defenders before slotting home his fourth league goal of the season.
The strike not only stunned the home crowd but also reaffirmed why Kylian Mbappe remains La Liga’s most feared attacker. With Real Sociedad struggling under new coach Sergio Francisco, Mbappe’s movement and speed stretched their backline throughout the opening stages. His ability to turn a half-chance into a decisive goal has already become Madrid’s greatest weapon this season.
Kylian Mbappe’s relentless pressing and intelligent runs created an early warning for Sociedad. Arda Güler had already seen a strike ruled out for offside before Mbappe broke the deadlock, highlighting Madrid’s attacking intent despite resting stars like Fede Valverde and keeping Trent Alexander-Arnold on the bench.
Real Madrid Face Setback as Huijsen Sees Red
The momentum shifted in the 30th minute when Madrid’s summer signing Dean Huijsen was shown a red card for dragging down Mikel Oyarzabal, who was clean through on goal. The dismissal left Los Blancos with ten men for the remaining hour of the game, forcing coach Xabi Alonso to rethink his tactical approach.
Huijsen, brought in from Bournemouth earlier in the summer, endured a nightmare evening as he misjudged the run and paid the price with a straight dismissal. The decision gave Real Sociedad renewed belief, and the home supporters roared their side forward sensing an opportunity to exploit the numerical advantage.
Despite being a man down, Madrid showed resilience. Instead of panicking, the visitors tightened their defensive structure with Dani Carvajal dropping deeper and Luka Modric dictating play from midfield. This defensive grit would ultimately define the outcome of the match.
Güler Doubles Lead After Kylian Mbappe Magic
Real Madrid did not retreat into their shell after going a man down. Instead, Kylian Mbappe once again took responsibility, dazzling the Sociedad defense with a surging run from the left before laying the ball perfectly for Arda Güler. The young Turkish midfielder coolly slotted the ball home to make it 2-0 just before half-time.
The goal underlined the growing chemistry between Kylian Mbappe and Güler, two players seen as the future of Madrid’s attack. Mbappe’s vision and selflessness stood out, as he could easily have gone for goal himself. Instead, he ensured Güler got his moment, proving that Los Blancos can still create chances even under pressure.
The 2-0 cushion silenced the Anoeta crowd temporarily, while Alonso used the interval to drill his players on maintaining discipline and focus. For Güler, it was a statement performance, showing he can step up when given the chance in Madrid’s star-studded squad.
Sociedad Fight Back with Oyarzabal Penalty
The second half belonged largely to Real Sociedad, who pushed forward with urgency. Their persistence paid off when Dani Carvajal was penalized for a handball inside the area. Captain Mikel Oyarzabal confidently converted from the spot to cut the deficit to 2-1 and ignite hopes of a comeback.
The goal lifted the Basque side, who created several more chances. Oyarzabal forced Thibaut Courtois into two smart saves, while Brais Méndez also tested the Madrid goalkeeper. Sociedad’s possession and territorial dominance grew, but they lacked the killer edge needed to break down a disciplined Madrid defense.
Madrid, meanwhile, adjusted by substituting Vinícius Júnior for Fran García, a move designed to add defensive solidity. It was a tactical switch that reflected Alonso’s pragmatic approach in difficult circumstances.
Alonso’s Tactical Discipline Proves Decisive
Xabi Alonso had warned his players before the game that reputations would not guarantee places in the starting XI. His decision to rest Fede Valverde and bench Alexander-Arnold was bold but vindicated by the team’s overall discipline. Even when down to ten men, Alonso’s side remained compact, closing spaces and frustrating Sociedad.
The coach’s in-game management was crucial. By reinforcing the midfield and introducing defensive changes, Alonso ensured that Sociedad’s late pressure did not overwhelm his side. The young coach’s ability to adapt under pressure continues to impress, especially against his former club.
Vinícius Júnior’s quiet night was another subplot, as the Brazilian failed to find his rhythm before being withdrawn. In contrast, Kylian Mbappe thrived under adversity, proving again why he is Madrid’s undisputed leader in attack.
Madrid Maintain Perfect Start to La Liga Season
When the final whistle blew after six minutes of added time, Real Madrid could celebrate not only three points but also a statement of intent. With four wins from four matches, Los Blancos sit top of La Liga on 12 points, ahead of Athletic Bilbao and Barcelona, who both play later in the weekend.
This victory will be remembered for its grit as much as its flair. Playing with ten men for an hour away from home is never easy, yet Madrid showed maturity and resilience that will serve them well in the title race. Kylian Mbappe’s decisive goal and assist once again highlighted his superstar status, while Güler’s performance suggested Madrid’s future is in safe hands.
For Real Sociedad, it was another frustrating evening under Sergio Francisco, who is still seeking his first win as coach. Despite periods of dominance, the hosts lacked the precision needed to convert pressure into points.
As La Liga unfolds, Madrid’s perfect start—anchored by the brilliance of Kylian Mbappe—sends a clear warning to rivals: this team is ready to challenge on all fronts, no matter the obstacles.
