Since his saga-ending move from PSG to Real Madrid, French star Kylian Mbappe has strived to live up to enormous expectations.
It was not the smoothest start in the Spanish capital for Kylian Mbappé. But the summer signing emerged as one of the heroes on Tuesday, leading Real Madrid to a narrow victory over an Atalanta side that was unbeaten in this season's revamped UEFA Champions League format.
Unfortunately for Carlo Ancelotti and the French striker, Mbappé had to be substituted in the 35th minute. “It doesn't seem serious, but he couldn't sprint because it bothered him a bit. So we preferred to take it off. We will see tomorrow,” said the Italian coach during the post-match press conference.
The good news for Madrid was that they desperately needed the win, and their star-studded trio delivered on the scoresheet. Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior – just back from injury – and Jude Bellingham, who has rediscovered his scoring form, all found the net. Three crucial points in Europe's most prestigious club competition.
With this win, Los Blancos climbed to 18th place in the standings, earning nine points from three wins and three losses. Meanwhile, Atalanta, current Serie A leaders and previously unbeaten in the Champions League, suffered their first defeat of the season and remain on 11 points.
Mbappe follows Messi
With his goal in the 10th minute, Mbappe reached 50 goals in 79 UEFA Champions League appearances, equaling the record of his compatriot Thierry Henry. Only Ruud van Nistelrooy (62 games), Robert Lewandowski (77 games) and Lionel Messi (66 games) reached the milestone in fewer games.
At just 25 years, 11 months and 20 days old, Mbappe becomes the second-youngest player in history to score 50 goals in the Champions League, behind only Lionel Messi, who achieved this at 24 years and 284 days old with Barcelona.
Now the French striker wants to further cement his legacy in the tournament, which he has yet to win in his career. He is determined to achieve this feat with the team that holds the record for most Champions League titles. Although this new chapter brings challenges, Mbappé is gradually responding with goals and standout performances.
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