Kylian Mbappe's brace powers Real Madrid to La Liga summit

Kylian Mbappe's brace powers Real Madrid to La Liga summit

Real Madrid have reclaimed the top spot in La Liga after a convincing 4-1 victory over Las Palmas, with Kylian Mbappe scoring twice.

The match at the Santiago Bernabeu saw an early scare for Los Blancos when they conceded just 25 seconds into the game, but Mbappe's performance was instrumental in turning the tide.

Carlo Ancelotti, the Real Madrid manager, expressed his satisfaction with Mbappe's display. "Mbappe is the best centre forward in the world, there should be no doubts as to whether he could play in that position," Ancelotti said during a post-match press conference.

He further emphasized, "He is a great striker who is very good playing in the centre, rather than on the wing, because that way he can make the most of his unique runs, with speed and technique."

The match began with Las Palmas taking an unexpected lead, but Real Madrid quickly regained composure. Mbappe scored from the penalty spot after Sandro Ramirez brought down Rodrygo, evening the score.

The momentum continued as Lucas Vazquez set up Brahim Diaz for Real's second, followed by another goal from Mbappe just minutes later, showcasing his clinical finishing.

Despite the initial setback, Real Madrid's team controlled the game, applying relentless pressure. Mbappe nearly completed a hat-trick before halftime, only to be denied by an offside flag.

Post-interval, Rodrygo added another goal, securing the win for Real Madrid and maintaining their lead at the top of the league standings.

This victory comes after a challenging week where Real Madrid faced criticism following a loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup and a narrow victory over Celta Vigo in the Copa del Rey.

Ancelotti commented on the team's resilience, noting, "In times of difficulty, it is necessary to be self-critical and positive in order to move forward. There is criticism and criticism. The booing at the Santiago Bernabeu hurt because the fans are not happy, but it motivates. It was a useful wake-up call for the team, who have put in a good performance."

With this win, Real Madrid now lead the league with 46 points, two points ahead of Atletico Madrid. Barcelona, who drew 1-1 with Getafe, are seven points behind in third place.

Las Palmas continue their struggle, not having won away at Real Madrid in La Liga in 36 encounters, and they now sit just three points above the relegation zone.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid's focus will be on maintaining their form as they approach the crucial end of the season, buoyed by a performance that has silenced some of the recent criticisms. 

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