Real Madrid Rivals Barcelona in La Liga News: Kylian Mbappe’s Historic Free-Kick Goal

In a thrilling match that saw Real Madrid secure a 3-2 comeback win against Leganes at the Santiago Bernabeu, a significant milestone was reached in Kylian Mbappe’s career. He scored his first-ever direct free-kick goal, marking a historic moment that places him among the greatest goalscorers in soccer history.

As the La Liga title race intensifies, Los Blancos have drawn level with Barcelona on points, setting the stage for a captivating season finale. Leganes, fighting relegation, surprisingly took the lead before halftime. Despite a strong start from Madrid, with Luka Modric and Jude Bellingham testing Leganes’ goalkeeper Marko Dmitrovic, it was Mbappe who broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute.

After Arda Guler was fouled in the box, the French superstar executed a cheeky penalty, chipping the ball down the middle and sending the goalkeeper the wrong way, showcasing his confidence and flair.

However, the lead was short-lived as Diego García equalized just a minute later, and Dani Raba put Leganes ahead before halftime. With Carlo Ancelotti’s side trailing 2-1, they needed a quick response. Just two minutes into the second half, Bellingham equalized, capitalizing on a rebound from Brahim Díaz’s deflected shot.

With the match entering the final quarter-hour, Ancelotti made crucial substitutions by bringing on Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo Goes, and Fede Valverde. Leganes defended well, but in the 76th minute, Madrid found their moment.

Mbappe’s Historic Free-Kick Goal

A free kick awarded just outside the box was taken by Fran García, who laid the ball off for Mbappe. The Frenchman curled a stunning shot around the wall and into the bottom corner, marking a landmark goal as it was the first time he scored directly from a free kick in his career.

His celebration reflected the importance of the goal, which secured three vital points in the title race for Madrid.

Matching Impressive Records: Cristiano Ronaldo and Erling Haaland

Mbappe’s goal not only secured the match but also placed him in elite company. With 33 goals in his debut season at Real Madrid, he now matches Cristiano Ronaldo’s tally from the Portuguese star’s first season at the club in 2009-10, with only Ivan Zamorano ahead of him.

Additionally, Mbappe’s prolific scoring run has him level with Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. According to StatMuse FC on X (formerly Twitter), both strikers have scored 21 league goals this season and 48 league goals since the start of last season.

The rivalry between Mbappe and Haaland is shaping up to be one of the defining narratives in modern soccer.