Kylian Mbappé scored two goals and helped Real Madrid overcome a stubborn challenge from third division side Talavera.
Published December 18, 2025
Kylian Mbappé scored twice as Real Madrid defeated third-division club Talavera 3-2 in the last-32 of the Copa del Rey on Wednesday.
Mbappe converted a penalty in the 41st minute and sealed the victory with a shot from outside the area late in the second half, his 10th goal in the last six games against Madrid. The French forward was also involved in the play that led to Manuel Farrand’s own goal in first-half stoppage time.
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“He was decisive,” Madrid coach Xabi Alonso said. “Kilian has the ability to score. The third goal was the key. That’s why we kept him on the pitch and started him.”
Talavera narrowed Madrid’s lead with goals from Nahuel Arroyo in the 80th minute and Gonzalo Di Renzo in second-half stoppage time, but Madrid continued to avoid an upset that would have put added pressure on Alonso after a string of disappointing results in recent times.
A tough save in the final moments by Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin was key to securing Madrid’s victory.
Madrid struggled in the closing stages, but took control from the start despite playing without several regular starters.
“We controlled the game well in the first half and took the lead, but we couldn’t make it 3-0 and the game remained open, and it remained that way until the end,” Alonso said. “The second half was a very even game. We had a chance to score a third goal early on, but it didn’t happen. It was an exciting draw. It’s a special tournament. We achieved our goal and now we move on to the next game.”
Madrid ended 2025 on Saturday with Sevilla in the Spanish league.
