Kylian Mbappe registered two goals as Real Madrid sailed to a comfortable 4-1 victory over Sevilla on Sunday to build momentum ahead of next weekend’s El Clasico against Barcelona.
The France international took his tally to 11 goals in all competitions this season, continuing his impressive start as Real Madrid moved above Real Betis into third place, six points behind league leaders Barcelona.
Arda Güler opened the scoring in the 30th minute with a superb strike before Mbappe doubled Los Blancos’ advantage seven minutes later.
Madrid maintained their attacking threat after the break, with Sevilla struggling to find a way back into the contest despite efforts to reduce the deficit.
Mbappe completed his brace from the penalty spot after being brought down inside the box, converting with a cheeky Panenka finish to put Madrid firmly in control.
Yan Diomande added Real Madrid’s fourth goal with a powerful strike late in the game to seal a comfortable victory for the hosts. Manu Bueno scored a late consolation for Sevilla, but it did little to change the outcome.
The result will be a boost for Madrid ahead of a demanding week that includes a Champions League fixture against Bundesliga side RB Leipzig on Wednesday and an away trip to Camp Nou, where they battle Barcelona on October 25.
Barcelona extended their lead at the top to six points after beating Real Betis 5-2 on Saturday, while Atletico Madrid remain second, separating Spain’s two biggest rivals in the standings.
Speaking in his post-match conference, Madrid defender Dean Huijsen said the team were focused on maintaining their momentum as they prepared for the upcoming challenges.
“The team is doing well now, looking forward to what’s to come,” Huijsen told the club’s television channel.
“We have the Champions League on Wednesday; we’ll go step by step, and then comes Barcelona; it’s a very important week for us.”
Madrid were without Brazilian winger Vinícius Júnior, who was suspended following his dismissal for pulling an opponent’s hair last weekend. His absence prompted changes to the team’s attacking setup.
With El Clasico approaching, Real Madrid will hope Sunday’s emphatic win can help them close the gap on Barcelona and strengthen their title challenge.
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