Real Madrid stumble as Athletic Bilbao outclass Carlo Ancelotti's side

Carlo Ancelotti's conservative tactics and a missed penalty from Kylian Mbappe compounded the visitors' struggles, while Athletic showcased superior intensity, ambition, and execution.

Athletic set the tone early with relentless pressing, forcing an error from Marco Asensio in the opening minutes. A wayward pass allowed Nico Williams a chance, but Thibaut Courtois made a crucial save to deny the forward.

Despite Ancelotti's decision to reinforce the midfield by starting Aurelien Tchouameni, Real Madrid failed to control the game, with Athletic consistently winning duels and dictating the tempo.

The breakthrough came early in the second half. Inaki Williams delivered a dangerous cross that caused confusion in Madrid's defence, allowing Alex Berenguer to bundle the ball home and send the home crowd into raptures.

Ancelotti's attempt to inject creativity by bringing on Brahim Diaz briefly sparked hope, but Mbappe's night went from bad to worse. The Frenchman missed a penalty and squandered a clear opportunity shortly after, visibly struggling under pressure.

Real Madrid briefly rallied when Mbappe's shot was parried, and Jude Bellingham converted the rebound to level the scores. However, Madrid's defensive frailties resurfaced.

A costly error from Federico Valverde gifted Gorka Guruzeta the ball, and the striker calmly slotted past Courtois to restore Athletic's lead.

Ancelotti's late substitutions failed to change the game's trajectory, leaving Real Madrid looking far from the side that previously dominated La Liga and Europe.

With tough fixtures against Girona and Atalanta looming, and Vinicius Junior still sidelined, Madrid's form raises serious concerns for their campaign.

READ MORE: Wilfred Ndidi shines as Leicester end losing streak