Mbappe double sends Real Madrid into Copa del Rey last 16
With his brace, Mbappé has now scored 58 goals for Real Madrid in 2025, moving within one goal of Cristiano Ronaldo’s club record of 59 goals set in 2013.
KATHMANDU: Kylian Mbappé scored twice as Real Madrid edged past Talavera 3–2 to book their place in the Copa del Rey last 16.
With his brace, Mbappé has now scored 58 goals for Real Madrid in 2025, moving within one goal of Cristiano Ronaldo’s club record of 59 goals set in 2013.
Real Madrid took the lead in the 42nd minute when Mbappé converted from the penalty spot after Marcos Moreno was penalised for handball during a corner.
Just four minutes later, Mbappé’s shot deflected off defender Manuel Ferrando and went in as an own goal, giving Madrid a 2–0 advantage at half-time.
Talavera mounted a late comeback. Nahuel Arroyo pulled one back in the 80th minute to raise hopes for the hosts.
However, Mbappé restored Madrid’s control in the 88th minute with a powerful long-range strike that slipped through the goalkeeper’s hands.
Gonzalo Di Renzo scored again for Talavera in injury time, but it was not enough to force extra time.
Head coach Xabi Alonso made ten changes from the side that defeated Alavés in La Liga, rotating heavily amid a busy schedule.
The win eases recent pressure on Madrid, marking their third victory in five matches.
Alongside their Copa del Rey progress, Real Madrid sit second in La Liga and remain in a strong position in the UEFA Champions League, underlining their push on multiple fronts this season.
