Real Madrid missed a key opportunity to close the gap on Barcelona. With a missed penalty by Kylian Mbappé and a costly error from Fede Valverde, the Merengues fell 2-1 to Athletic Club in San Mamés.
The match began evenly, with Madrid creating the first real chance. In the 12th minute, Rodrygo entered the box and attempted to cut inside but lost the ball to a defender. Fran García recovered it and took a shot, which deflected to Mbappé, who scored. However, the goal was ruled out for offside. Moments later, Rodrygo’s earlier challenge was reviewed by VAR for a possible penalty, but no foul was called.
Athletic Strikes First
The first half ended scoreless, but in the 53rd minute, Álex Berenguer broke the deadlock. A rebound from Thibaut Courtois, who reacted well to a cross-shot, fell perfectly to Berenguer, who calmly slotted it into the net.
Mbappé Misses Another Penalty
Madrid had their chance to equalize in the 66th minute when Julen Agirrezabala collided with Antonio Rüdiger during a free-kick, earning Madrid a penalty. However, for the second game in a row, Mbappé failed to convert from the spot.
The Frenchman partially redeemed himself in the 78th minute, unleashing a powerful shot that the goalkeeper could only parry. Jude Bellingham was there to tap in the rebound and level the score at 1-1.
A Costly Mistake
Just two minutes later, a defensive lapse sealed Madrid’s fate. Federico Valverde, under light pressure, mishit a pass that landed at the feet of Gorka Guruzeta. Guruzeta charged towards the box and calmly beat Courtois to secure the win for Athletic.
With this result, Real Madrid remains second in La Liga with 33 points, now four points behind Barcelona. Athletic Club climbs to fourth with 29 points.
Images: X (@realmadrid) and X (@AthleticClub)
