Kylian Mbappe made a memorable debut for Real Madrid, scoring in their 2-0 victory over Atalanta to win the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday in Warsaw. This triumph marked a record sixth Super Cup for the Spanish giants.
Mbappe, who joined Real Madrid this summer after years of anticipation, celebrated his first appearance by netting the second goal of the match. Fede Valverde opened the scoring in the 59th minute, capitalizing on a close-range opportunity after Atalanta, the Europa League champions, had held their own in the first half.
The match was evenly contested in the opening half, with Mbappe’s only chance coming in the 15th minute, which was blocked by Atalanta’s Isak Hien. However, Madrid gained momentum in the second half, and Valverde’s goal broke the deadlock. Vinicius Junior provided the assist, setting up the Uruguayan midfielder for an easy finish.
Mbappe sealed the win in the 68th minute after Jude Bellingham, who had an influential performance in midfield, found the French forward in space. Mbappe’s clinical finish secured the victory and earned him an ovation from the Real Madrid fans when he was substituted in the 83rd minute.
Real Madrid’s coach, Carlo Ancelotti, equaled the club record for most titles won by a manager, with 14 trophies to his name, matching the legendary Miguel Muñoz. Ancelotti’s challenge this season will be to integrate Mbappe into a forward line that also features Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes, while making the most of Bellingham’s versatility in midfield.
Thibaut Courtois, back from injury, also played a crucial role, making a stunning save to deny Mario Pasalic at the start of the second half.
Atalanta, appearing in their first Super Cup after their surprising Europa League win, had their moments but couldn’t capitalize on their chances, with Madrid’s defense standing firm.
Real Madrid’s victory in the Super Cup sets a strong tone for the upcoming season, with Mbappe’s arrival and immediate impact hinting at the potential for more silverware under Ancelotti’s guidance.
