Real Madrid delivered a masterclass performance at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, dismantling AS Monaco 6-1 in a UEFA Champions League clash that showcased the attacking prowess of their star-studded lineup. The victory extended Los Blancos’ remarkable home dominance against French opponents in major European competitions, remaining unbeaten in 18 of their last 19 encounters with 14 wins and four draws.
The match began quietly before exploding into action in the fifth minute. Mbappe, facing his former employer for the first time in European competition, needed just his second touch to find the net. The French superstar swept home his 10th goal of the tournament from the edge of the area, setting the tone for what would become a forgettable evening for the visitors. Mbappe’s clinical finish demonstrated the predatory instincts that made him such a coveted signing for the Spanish giants, and later in the first half, Mbappe was involved in another key attacking move that left Monaco’s defense scrambling.
Monaco’s Missed Opportunities Prove Costly
The Ligue 1 side struggled to establish any rhythm in the opening quarter-hour. On-loan Barcelona forward Ansu Fati squandered a golden chance to level the score from close range, a miss that would come back to haunt the visitors. The game’s momentum shifted decisively in the 25th minute when Folarin Balogun’s attempt to keep the ball in play backfired spectacularly, sparking a devastating Real counter-attack. Balogun’s miscue left his teammates exposed, and the hosts wasted no time punishing the error.
Vinicius Junior showcased his creative brilliance with an audacious outside-of-the-boot cross that found Mbappe perfectly positioned to double the advantage. The connection between Mbappe and Vinicius signaled the beginning of a long night for Monaco’s defensive unit. Their partnership has been flourishing in recent weeks, and this performance offered further evidence of their growing chemistry on the pitch.
Late First-Half Resistance Crumbles After Break
Jordan Teze nearly gave Monaco hope when his curling effort crashed against the crossbar, while Maghnes Akliouche and Balogun both forced saves from Thibaut Courtois before halftime. However, any dreams of a comeback evaporated within six minutes of the restart.
Mbappe then made his presence felt again, with a perfectly timed run that drew defenders and opened space for Franco Mastantuono to extend the lead with a clinical first-time right-footed shot across the goalkeeper. The French star’s influence, combined with Vinicius’ second assist of the evening, demonstrated his ability to dominate the attack. Balogun’s earlier involvement in the build-up only highlighted the growing gap between the sides.
Brazilian Brilliance and Defensive Collapse
Before the hour mark, the scoreline grew even more emphatic. Mbappe’s movement created space for Vinicius’ low cross, which resulted in an unfortunate own goal from Thilo Kehrer, making it 4-0. The relentless assault continued as Fede Valverde, Arda Guler, Jude Bellingham, and Balogun all tested their luck against a beleaguered Monaco defense.
The standout moment belonged to Vinicius, who unleashed a thunderous strike into the top corner for the goal of the night. Mbappe’s presence on the pitch and interplay with Vinicius epitomized the gap in class between the two sides. The French star, along with the 24-year-old Brazilian, reinforced their status among Europe’s elite attackers.
Consolation and Final Flourish
A rare defensive lapse from Dani Ceballos denied Courtois a clean sheet, allowing Teze to capitalize on the mistake and grab a consolation goal for Monaco. The brief respite proved short-lived as Bellingham completed the scoring spree, taking the ball past Philipp Kohn and slotting into an empty net to make it 6-1. Balogun’s earlier involvement in build-up play highlighted Monaco’s struggles to contain top-level talent throughout the match.
Table Implications
The comprehensive victory propelled Real Madrid to second place in the league table, at least temporarily, while Monaco slumped to 21st position. The Ligue 1 outfit now faces the genuine threat of elimination from the competition entirely, a stark contrast to their opponents’ smooth progression through the tournament.
Madrid’s attacking trio of Mbappe, Vinicius and Bellingham combined for a devastating display that highlighted why Los Blancos remain among Europe’s elite. For Monaco, the crushing defeat serves as a harsh reminder of the gulf that exists between domestic success and competing at the highest level of European football.
The Spanish giants continue their quest for yet another Champions League trophy, while Monaco must regroup quickly to salvage their campaign and avoid an early exit from the continent’s premier club competition. Manager Carlo Ancelotti will be pleased with how his team executed their game plan with ruthless efficiency.
Source: Flashscore
