Mbappé hits hat-trick as Mourinho marks winning Real Madrid return
Kylian Mbappé delivered a statement performance as Real Madrid defeated Real Sociedad 4-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu, scoring a hat-trick on a memorable night for José Mourinho.
Mourinho returned to the Real Madrid dugout 13 years after his previous spell at the club ended, but it was Mbappé who ultimately dominated the headlines.
The French forward scored three times to register his first goals of the season, while Vinícius Júnior also found the net as Madrid secured three points in their first-round LaLiga fixture.
Mbappé turns frustration into a hat-trick
Mbappé endured a frustrating start in front of goal, missing chances against Espanyol and again early against Real Sociedad. However, the forward eventually found his breakthrough in the 40th minute.
Fede Valverde played a key role in the opening goal, providing the delivery that allowed Mbappé to put Real Madrid ahead. The advantage lasted only four minutes, however, as Real Sociedad responded through Luka Sučić to make it 1-1 before half-time.
Real Madrid find another gear after the break
Mourinho made an immediate change at half-time, bringing Marc Cucurella onto the pitch. Real Madrid subsequently increased their attacking threat, particularly down the left side, as they looked to regain control of the contest.
Mbappé restored Madrid's lead in the 59th minute after combining with Jude Bellingham before finishing from the edge of the area. The goal shifted the momentum firmly towards the home side.
Vinícius joins the scoring
Vinícius Júnior then extended Real Madrid's advantage in the 68th minute. Bellingham again played an important role, showing determination inside the area before setting up Vinícius to finish into an unguarded net.
The Brazilian celebrated by kissing the Real Madrid badge as the Bernabéu crowd responded positively. It was a significant moment for Vinícius, who had faced criticism and whistles earlier in the match.
Mbappé completes his hat-trick
Mbappé saved his best finish for last. In the 80th minute, Vinícius supplied the pass that sent the Frenchman through, with Mbappé calmly lifting the ball over goalkeeper Álex Remiro.
The finish completed his hat-trick and sealed a convincing 4-1 victory for Real Madrid. The performance also gave Mourinho an ideal start to his second spell in charge at the Bernabéu.
A promising attacking combination
Mbappé's three goals, Vinícius' goal and Bellingham's two assists provided plenty of encouragement for Mourinho. The attacking trio had struggled at times to consistently reach their potential under previous coaches, but all three made decisive contributions on this occasion.
For Mbappé in particular, the night represented a major confidence boost after his earlier missed chances. Real Sociedad offered little attacking threat after the interval, allowing Madrid to finish the match comfortably and claim all three points.
Match Details
Real Madrid 4-1 Real Sociedad
Goals: Mbappé 40', Sučić 44', Mbappé 59', Vinícius Júnior 68', Mbappé 80'.
Venue: Santiago Bernabéu
Result: Real Madrid win 4-1
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