Kylian Mbappe gave Real Madrid a vital La Liga victory as the team temporarily topped the ladder with a 2-0 win in a maiden control of the Spanish club at Villarreal. The outcome gave Madrid a stronger title attempt and also emphasized their increasing level of stability under the interim coach, Alvaro Arbeloa.
Real Madrid went into the game with the stress of the title battle, and the first half was the manifestation of this battle, where both teams neutralized each other. Villarreal was a tough guy in the middle of the field, and Madrid was calm and controlled without taking an unnecessary risk.
The innovation came early in the second half as Madrid took advantage of the prolonged attacking pressure on the left. This resulted in confusion due to a low pass to the box, and the visiting side was able to get the goal decisively with a short-range pass and eventually swing the game in their favor.
Villarreal retaliated with purpose and sent numbers to seek an equaliser, challenging the defensive set up of Madrid. In spite of a number of good chances, the hosts failed to translate their pressure into a goal since Madrid remained tight and concentrated.
The contest ended as Madrid were given a penalty towards the end of the game, which was a stoppage time. The goal was taken in a composed manner to ensure the victory and secure a well-behaved performance under severe pressure away.
The win took Madrid two points ahead on the top, even when Barcelona had a league match to play. To Villarreal, the loss made them fall to fourth position even though their performance was that of perseverance and goal-seeking aggression.
The impact of Álvaro Arbeloa is also becoming more noticeable following a rough beginning that was characterized by a loss in the Copa del Rey. His side has since reacted with three consecutive victories in every competition, which can be interpreted as increased confidence and focus.
Arbeloa has always emphasized the role of his older players in going through a tough season. Such a faith was again rewarded when leadership and calmness were critical at crucial points of the match.
His league goal has reached 21 goals, which strengthens the position of the French forward as the top scorer in the competition. Kylian Mbappe has managed to perform in stressful conditions numerous times and has become the focus of the Madrid sprint to the title.
Real Madrid now shift their focus towards being consistent with the season entering into a decisive stage. As confidence levels improve and star players play, the club is certain that it will need more than a few weeks of committed attention.
