In the 17th round of the La Liga season, Real Madrid hosted Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabéu and secured a 2–0 victory over their opponents, who finished the match with ten men, bringing their 2025 campaign to a satisfying close.
With this win, Real Madrid extended their winning streak across all competitions to three matches and moved to 42 points in La Liga, remaining second. Having played earlier in the round, Real Madrid now trails the league leaders and defending champions, Barcelona, by just one point (43).
Mbappé Shines on Birthday, Equals Ronaldo’s Record
Celebrating his 27th birthday, Kylian Mbappé converted a penalty in the 86th minute to seal the win for Real Madrid.
According to statistics, Mbappé has now scored 59 goals in all competitions for Real Madrid in 2025, equaling Cristiano Ronaldo’s club record for the most goals in a single calendar year, set in 2013.
After scoring, Mbappé recreated Ronaldo’s iconic “SIU” celebration. Speaking after the match, he admitted it was a tribute to his idol.
“Matching Cristiano’s numbers in my first calendar year at Real Madrid is unbelievable. He’s my idol and one of the greatest players in the club’s history. That celebration was my way of thanking him for all the care and support he’s given me.”
Mbappé later shared photos on social media of his goal celebration and a childhood picture with Ronaldo, writing: “Believe in your dreams. Go for it! @cristiano”
Rodrygo and Bellingham Combine for the Opener
The opening goal came in the 41st minute when Rodrygo delivered a precise free kick, and Jude Bellingham rose to head the ball into the net. Rodrygo later won the penalty that allowed Mbappé to score, directly contributing to both goals in the match.
Sevilla Reduced to Ten Men
Sevilla defender Marcão was sent off in the 68th minute after receiving a second yellow card. According to the referee’s report, the Brazilian center-back allegedly threatened and verbally abused the referee before leaving the pitch, and may face further disciplinary action.
Real Sociedad Held, Coaching Change Announced
In another match on the same day, Japanese international Takefusa Kubo ended a four-month goal drought. Still, his club, Real Sociedad, was held to a 1–1 draw away to the bottom-placed promoted side Levante. Levante’s De la Fuente scored a stoppage-time penalty to earn a point for the hosts.
With just 17 points and sitting 16th in the table, Real Sociedad dismissed head coach Francisco last weekend. The club has since announced the appointment of American coach Pellegrino Matarazzo as his successor.
This victory not only allowed Real Madrid to end 2025 on a high note but also highlighted Mbappé’s growing legacy at the Bernabéu.
As the season progresses, Real Madrid’s title push looks increasingly determined, setting the stage for an even more captivating La Liga title race.
