Kylian Mbappe made headlines by equalling Cristiano Ronaldo’s club record of 59 goals in a calendar year for Real Madrid. He converted a late penalty kick to cap off Real Madrid’s 2-0 home win against Sevilla in La Liga. This exceptional feat occurred on his 27th birthday. This accomplishment marks a significant moment in Mbappe’s career, as he continues to solidify his status among football’s elite.
The final played out before a stunning atmosphere in the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. The Englishman opened the scoring for Real Madrid in the first half. His historic strike would only be the lead into a tremendous and eventful evening ahead. It was Mbappe’s late match-winning penalty spot kick that stole the show.
Match Dynamics
Real Madrid controlled the ball in the early stages, but it was Bellingham that opened the scoring as Real established an invaluable advantage. On a daunting challenge, Sevilla defender Marcao had a second yellow card shown to him, leaving his team with ten men. This was really advantageous for Real Madrid, but it wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows.
Mbappe actually had some trouble putting the ball in the back of the net in the first half. He sent one effort directly at the Sevilla goalkeeper and dragged another shot wide, missing several key opportunities to extend his team’s lead. As the clock counted down, he thought he had at least deserved another opportunity to score after being fouled. Initially the referee pointed to the penalty spot, but after a VAR review he reversed his decision.
A Historic Penalty
With the match deep into stoppage time, Mbappe was given his opportunity to level Ronaldo’s record. The penalty was given up after a foul in the box, and not this time there was no argument.
“Today, and because of the record, it’s incredible, in my first year to be able to do what Cristiano did,” – Kylian Mbappe
That made it 59 goals in as many games in all competitions for club and country in 2025. This incredible accomplishment equals Ronaldo’s number from 2013, further cementing his legacy with the club Real Madrid.
Thibaut Courtois made a handful of game-defining stops to keep the clean sheet intact. His dazzling display propelled his club to an easy victory and a spot in the knockout rounds. As it stands right now, Real Madrid sits second in La Liga with 42 points. They now sit one point ahead of their rivals, Barcelona, as Barcelona get set to play Villarreal.
Reflections on Achievement
Post-match, this is what Mbappe had to say about what this milestone meant to him. In a post highlighting his admiration for Ronaldo, he reflected on the importance of this achievement on such a symbolic day—his birthday.
“My idol, the best player in the history of Real Madrid and a reference in world football. It’s an honour for me.” – Kylian Mbappe
He shared insights into his celebration, indicating that it was a tribute to Ronaldo:
“Normally, I have my own celebration, but I wanted to share that with him, and like I said, he’s been my idol since I was a kid. I have a very good relationship with him; he’s a friend now.” – Kylian Mbappe
With Sevilla’s defeat, they stay in ninth on the La Liga table with 20 points. With each passing week, Real Madrid will want to be taking advantage of that momentum as they attempt to fly towards yet another league championship.
