Kylian Mbappe’s brace and a late strike from Vinicius Jr secured a 3-0 victory for Real Madrid against newly-promoted Real Oviedo, despite another unconvincing performance from Xabi Alonso’s side at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Madrid, who struggled in their opening match, were far from dominant once again and almost conceded within seconds when an early Oviedo attack forced a mistake from Thibaut Courtois, only for Dean Huijsen to recover brilliantly.
Despite creating few clear chances, Los Blancos capitalised on their one real opportunity of the first half as Mbappe displayed his trademark brilliance. The Frenchman turned sharply on the edge of the box before placing a precise finish into the bottom corner to give Madrid the lead.
After the break, Federico Valverde came close to doubling the advantage following a well-worked counter-attack, but goalkeeper Aaron Escandell produced a superb save to deny him. Oviedo, meanwhile, posed a growing threat and struck the post before Madrid regained control late on.
Mbappe added his second in the 83rd minute, clinically finishing from a Vinicius Jr assist to put the result beyond doubt. In stoppage time, Vinicius got on the scoresheet himself, finding the bottom corner after Oviedo committed men forward in search of a goal.
The win makes it two victories from two for Madrid to start their La Liga campaign, though Alonso’s side will be seeking more convincing performances in the games ahead.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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