Kylian Mbappe Approaches Cristiano Ronaldo's Goal Record

Kylian Mbappe Approaches Cristiano Ronaldo's Goal Record

Kylian Mbappe Approaches Cristiano Ronaldo's Goal Record

Kylian Mbappe is now just one goal away from equalling Cristiano Ronaldo's record for the most goals scored for Real Madrid in a calendar year, following his two-goal performance in the Copa del Rey match against Talavera.

The 26-year-old French forward netted his 57th and 58th goals of 2025, sandwiching an own goal by defender Manuel Farrando, as Real Madrid secured their place in the last 16 of the tournament, despite a late challenge from the third-division side.

Mbappe's brace brings him within striking distance of Ronaldo's remarkable tally of 59 goals achieved in 2013.

Manager Xabi Alonso made ten changes to the lineup that defeated Alaves in La Liga on Sunday, narrowing the gap to four points behind leaders Barcelona, with key players Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr. starting on the bench.

Real Madrid dominated the match from the outset but struggled to break the deadlock until the 42nd minute when Mbappe converted a penalty, sending Jaime Gonzalez the wrong way after Marcos Moreno committed a handball.

Just four minutes later, Mbappe added a second goal, skillfully maneuvering along the byline before his shot deflected off Farrando into the net.

Talavera managed to pull one back in the 80th minute with a goal from Nahuel Arroyo; however, their hopes of a comeback were dashed when Gonzalez inadvertently deflected Mbappe's long-range effort into his own goal eight minutes later.

In stoppage time, Gonzalo di Renzo scored a second goal for Talavera, but it was not enough to alter the outcome of the match.

Real Madrid will return to action on Saturday at 20:00 GMT, facing Sevilla in La Liga.

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