Sun Mar 16 20:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Mbappe Double Propels Real Madrid to Victory Over Villarreal

**Villarreal, Spain** – Kylian Mbappe scored twice to lead Real Madrid to a 2-1 comeback victory over Villarreal at El Madrigal, moving Los Blancos three points clear at the top of La Liga.

Villarreal took an early lead when captain Juan Foyth capitalized on a goalmouth scramble following a corner kick in the 7th minute. However, Real Madrid responded swiftly. Mbappe equalized in the 17th minute, converting a rebound after Brahim Diaz’s shot was saved. He then added his second six minutes later, curling a shot past the goalkeeper from the edge of the box. This takes his La Liga tally to 20 goals for the season, just one behind league leader Robert Lewandowski.

Despite Villarreal’s strong efforts, including several saves by Thibaut Courtois, they were unable to find an equalizer. The hosts pushed hard throughout, particularly in the latter stages of the match but Real Madrid held on for the victory.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed his displeasure at the short turnaround between matches, following their grueling Champions League encounter against Atletico Madrid just three days prior. He stated that Real Madrid would refuse to play any further games with less than a 72-hour rest period. This win comes 66 hours after Madrid’s Champions League victory.

The victory keeps Real Madrid on track for the La Liga title. Villarreal, meanwhile, remain fifth, five points adrift of the Champions League qualification spots.

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