Real Madrid managed to secure a 3-2 victory over Leganes in a game where they rested key players, keeping an eye on their Copa Del Rey ambitions. Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring with a penalty, but Leganes, fighting against relegation, responded strongly to take the lead before halftime, exploiting weaknesses in Real Madrid`s disorganized defense.
In the second half, Real Madrid started with renewed energy, with Jude Bellingham equalizing. The introduction of Vinicius Junior and Fede Valverde further boosted Real Madrid`s attack, leading to Mbappe scoring the winning goal from a clever set-piece play.
This win puts Real Madrid level on points with Barcelona at the top of La Liga, although Barcelona has a game in hand against Girona on Sunday. Real Madrid`s focus is on their own performance, as the La Liga title race could come down to the El Clásico match in May if both teams maintain their current form. This match against Leganes proved to be more challenging than anticipated, but such games offer valuable learning opportunities for Los Blancos.
Jude Bellingham`s Decisive Goal
Bellingham`s equalizer demonstrated his determination. Shortly after the second half began, he followed up his own saved shot and Brahim Diaz`s blocked attempt, seizing the rebound to score. This was Bellingham`s seventh La Liga goal of the season, adding to his six assists. Crucially, the goal came from a well-timed run into the penalty area.
Bellingham often made these forward runs last season when Real Madrid lacked a central striker, but it`s been less frequent since Mbappe`s arrival. In the second half, Bellingham effectively played as a second forward, taking three shots with a high expected goals value. He linked up well with Mbappe and maintained his passing accuracy, contributing to the team`s attacking drive.
Kylian Mbappe`s Impact
While Mbappe could have been more clinical with his nine shots, his two goals, including the winner, were crucial for Real Madrid. His two goals brought his La Liga tally to 22, tying him with Robert Lewandowski in the Golden Boot race. The team is actively ensuring Mbappe receives the ball frequently and in dangerous positions.
He is increasingly receiving the ball at his feet and during counter-attacks, proving highly effective. As Real Madrid competes for a treble this season, Mbappe`s goals will be vital. After a somewhat slow start at Madrid, Mbappe is now meeting the high expectations associated with the club. With Mbappe performing at this level, Real Madrid is developing into a formidable force at a critical point in the season.
Depth of Squad Questioned
Despite the victory, some Real Madrid players underperformed. Brahim Diaz conceded possession leading to a Leganes goal, and Fran Garcia and Raul Asencio struggled defensively. The match became unnecessarily difficult, a point Carlo Ancelotti will note. Considering the international break and player rotation, some inconsistency is understandable, but with a demanding schedule of three games in seven days, reliance on squad depth will be necessary. Upcoming Champions League quarter-finals against Arsenal, along with matches against Valencia and Alaves, teams similar to Leganes, will test Real Madrid`s squad. While Real Madrid has shown resilience, they need improved performances to seriously challenge Barcelona and win La Liga.
Looking Ahead
Real Madrid faces a busy schedule, including the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals on Tuesday, April 1st. Holding a 1-0 lead and playing at home, Real Madrid will be confident going into this match, with the Champions League fixtures against Arsenal also approaching. Leganes will need to quickly recover from this defeat in their fight against relegation, as they prepare to face Osasuna on April 7th.
