Despite resting key players with the Copa Del Rey in mind, Real Madrid managed to overcome Leganes 3-2 on Saturday. Kylian Mbappe initiated the scoring with a penalty, but Leganes, fighting against relegation, responded strongly to take the lead by halftime, exposing vulnerabilities in Real Madrid`s makeshift defense.
However, Real Madrid returned after the break with renewed energy. Jude Bellingham quickly equalized, and the introduction of Vinicius Junior and Fede Valverde injected further dynamism into Real Madrid`s play. Mbappe then sealed the victory with his second goal from a clever set-piece play.
This win puts Real Madrid level on points with Barcelona at the top of La Liga, although Barcelona has a game in hand against Girona on Sunday. Real Madrid`s focus remains on their own performances, as the title race could potentially hinge on El Clásico in May if both teams maintain their current form. While this match against Leganes proved more challenging than anticipated, these types of games can offer valuable lessons for Los Blancos.
Jude Bellingham`s Decisive Movement
Bellingham`s equalizer demonstrated his determination. Within moments of the second half kickoff, he followed up his own saved shot and Brahim Diaz`s blocked attempt, seizing the rebound to score. This was Bellingham`s seventh La Liga goal of the season, adding to his six assists. Crucially, the goal originated from a late run into the penalty area.
Such runs were a feature of Bellingham`s game last season when Real Madrid lacked a central striker, but have been less frequent since Mbappe`s arrival. In the second half, Bellingham effectively played as a second forward, taking multiple shots with a high expected goal value. He effectively combined with Mbappe and maintained his passing accuracy while contributing to the team`s attacking impetus.
Kylian Mbappe`s Impact
While Mbappe`s nine shots could have yielded more goals, his two goals, including the winning goal, were ultimately decisive for Real Madrid. His brace brought him level with Robert Lewandowski in the La Liga Golden Boot race with 22 goals. The team is actively ensuring Mbappe receives the ball frequently and in advantageous positions.
Mbappe is increasingly receiving the ball at his feet and in counter-attacking situations, proving highly effective. As Real Madrid competes for a treble this season, Mbappe`s goals will be vital. Despite a somewhat challenging start at Madrid, Mbappe is now meeting the high expectations associated with the shirt, contributing to Real Madrid`s transformation into a formidable force at a crucial point in the season.
Squad Depth Concerns
Despite the victory, several Real Madrid players underperformed. Brahim Diaz conceded possession leading to a Leganes goal, and Fran Garcia and Raul Asencio were defensively exposed. The match became more difficult than necessary, a point Carlo Ancelotti will note. While some rustiness is expected after the international break and player rotation, the upcoming schedule of three games in seven days will require reliance on squad depth. Champions League quarter-finals against Arsenal are interspersed with league matches against Valencia and Alaves, teams with a similar profile to Leganes. While Real Madrid has shown resilience in securing results, greater consistency is needed to seriously challenge Barcelona and win La Liga.
Looking Ahead
Real Madrid faces a busy schedule, including the Copa del Rey semi-final second leg on Tuesday, April 1st. Holding a 1-0 advantage and playing at home, Real Madrid will be confident going into the match. The Champions League is also on the horizon with the Arsenal tie looming. Leganes, meanwhile, must quickly recover from this narrow defeat in their fight against relegation and will play Osasuna on April 7th.
Benedict Kingsley 
Adrian Whitmore